The Notebook Keeper

A Story of Kindness from the Border

By: Stephen Briseño

Narrated by: María José Zuniga

Based on true events, this inspiring story follows a mama and her daughter who are denied entry at the U.S. border, and must find the refugee in charge of “the notebook,” an unofficial ledger of those waiting to cross into the U.S.

Before, the sun drenched the yard. Our neighbor's laughter danced in the streets. Now, the streets are quiet. Papa is gone, and we are no longer safe here. We are leaving, too.

In this moving picture book, Noemi and Mama flee their home in Mexico, and head for the US border. There, they look for "The Notebook Keeper"-- the person in charge of a ledger for those waiting to cross, and they add their names to the book. As the days turn into weeks, and hope dwindles, the little girl looks for kindness around her-- and inside herself. One day, when the Notebook Keeper's own name is called to cross, Noemi and her Mama are chosen--for the generosity in their hearts-- to take her place.

Critic reviews

A PURA BELPRÉ AUTHOR HONOR WINNER

★ "A heartening story emphasizing the real ways generous people step up in a crisis." —Booklist, starred review

"A hopeful story that encourages compassion." —Kirkus Reviews