Julián at the Wedding
“A wedding is a party for love.”
“Julián at the Wedding” is the 2nd book written and illustrated by Jessica Love. Julián and his Abuela are headed to a wedding. After the wedding, Julian and his new friend Marisol head off to explore. Marisol’s dress gets dirty while playing with the brides’ dog Gloria. Julian has an idea! He gives her his shirt and makes her a pair of wings from the willow tree nearby.
Julián shows great care when he helps Marisol to solve the problem of her dirty dress. He is immediately generous with his new friend. The abuelas are also examples of supportive adults. They don’t overreact and chastise the children but instead recognize their ingenuity and resourcefulness in solving the problem.
Again, Love uses simple sentences and those coupled with her elaborate and gorgeous illustrations encourage children and adults to study what is being shown on the page and to add their own observations and ideas into the narrative.
“Julián at the Wedding” provides what we hope will be the new normal in children’s lit, visible LGBTQ+, black/brown, and differently-abled characters living full lives. In a world lacking empathy and understanding, this simple story shows Julian and Marisol along with their family and friends celebrating love and compassion in all its forms.
For Teachers
Don’t be afraid to represent all kinds of love in your classroom. Despite the makeup of the families you serve - everyone can benefit from seeing that your classroom is a safe place. Remember that gay marriage is still protected by federal law and would be mentionable and worthy of celebration even without that. It is just as important to represent LGBTQ+ people as it is to represent any other group of people who have been targeted and marginalized.
Some Things to Think About…
When was the last time you went to a wedding? What do you remember about it?
How have weddings changed due to the pandemic?
Activity Idea: Let’s plan a wedding! Use dress up clothes, blankets, and other items you have around the house to pretend having a wedding. What music will you play? Who will get married? Who will be the audience? (Hint: stuffed animals and toys make great guests!)
