This book addresses a tough topic—the loss of a loved one. A very sensitive handling of death and grief, told from the perspective of Mexican culture.

I wasn't familiar with all of the Spanish words or the idea of Mictlan, but there was a handy glossary and explanation at the end, which clarified things.

I loved all the cultural references; but, for me, the story felt a bit slow and I wasn't really a fan of the art. Still, this is a good resource for teaching children about death, grief, and the land of Mictlan.

This is a beautiful and sensitively written book about death and grief filled with exquisite illustrations. For readers who do not speak Spanish or are not familiar with the nine levels of Mietlan the end of the book also contains a helpful glossary and additional information that will enrich the reading experience.

This is the beautiful story of a the day of the dead and a Nana who dreams of going on a journey with her dog, Popo. The illustrations are beautiful. Even better are the Spanish words (about 3 on each page) that are mixed in through the story. This is perfect for English speaking children who are learning Spanish.

Oh my gosh, this book is beautiful. ♥

We follow the story of beloved Nana who, after she dies, must travel to Mictlán with her ever faithful dog Popo. Despite the long journey, Popo pushes her on through a variation on what Indigenous Mexicans believe to be the nine levels of the journey to the afterlife. With gorgeous, heartfelt illustrations, we follow Nana and Popo through rivers, mountains, snow, and wind. When she finally makes it back to her home, she knows that although her family is mourning her loss, they'll always remember her and treasure what she loved -- including her beloved Popo.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a heartfelt little read. As someone who is Latinx, I loved seeing myself represented in a story that talked about grief and death. From the frijoles on the stove to the smell of Fabuloso in the air. The illustrations were so well done, and you could spend a good amount of time just admiring the detail in each one.

Thank you Charlesbridge and Netgalley for the eARC, all thoughts are my own.

This is one of the most beautiful books I've ever read. The pictures were stunning, and I found myself going back and forth to admire particular pages. The story itself is about family and death and grief, but it's also hopeful and full of love.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this

Popo the Xolo was an absolutely beautiful story with beautifully well done illustrations. What a wonderful treat this book was and it's such a needed addition to the world of picture books. I loved it and I will definitely be picking up copies of this and recommending it to everyone.

Thank you to NetGalley and Paloma Angelina Lopez for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

As a former Spanish teacher, this culture-filled children’s book warmed my heart! I loved seeing Nana go through the 9 levels of Mietlan and seeing her family celebrating her life on the other side. While I know some about particular Spanish cultures, this book taught me more about things that I had never seen! I loved the sprinkling of Spanish words throughout the text and truly hope to add this one to my personal library once I have kids! What a great way to help kids see different understandings of grief and passing.

Netgalley ARC - this is absolutely fantastic and I think it would be an important addition to any picture book collection! I think it is sensitive and vibrant and beautiful. The art and language is perfect.

I love that there are so many great picture books that handle tough topics like death and grief, and Popo the Xolo absolutely falls within that class. This is such a fantastic story of Nana journeying through Mictlan and seeing her family’s love for her. The art for this book is so beautiful and I couldn’t help but to stay on each page just to absorb all the detail and texture. I really loved this book and the message it had.