Emergency Quarters

"Emergency Quarters" by Carlos Matias is a children’s picture book that tells the story of young Leo, who is determined to save enough money to buy a special toy. However, when an unexpected family emergency arises, Leo faces a dilemma: use his saved quarters to help his family or fulfill his wish.

Throughout the story, Leo learns about empathy, the importance of family, and the value of putting others before oneself. With the support of his parents and friends, Leo discovers that while material possessions can bring temporary joy, the sense of fulfillment from helping those you love is far greater. The story beautifully captures Leo's emotional journey from focusing on his own desires to understanding the power of generosity.

Reviews

"Emergency Quarters" has been praised for its meaningful and touching message. Reviewers have highlighted how the book effectively conveys the importance of empathy and sacrifice. Critics note that the book does a fantastic job of illustrating how even small acts of generosity can make a significant difference. Reviewers say the narrative is engaging, with moments of tension and emotion.

Gracey Zhang’s artwork captures the characters' emotions beautifully, using a soft color palette and detailed expressions to convey the mood of each scene. Reviewers have pointed out that the illustrations provide visual cues that help young readers understand the depth of Leo's feelings. The illustrations bring the everyday setting of Leo’s home and neighborhood to life, making the story more relatable and emphasizing the familial bond at the heart of the narrative.

Educational Benefits

1. Teaching Empathy and Compassion: The book provides a concrete example of empathy, showing how Leo decides to use his savings to help his family rather than fulfill his own desire. This helps children understand the importance of putting others first and recognizing the needs of those around them.
2. Introducing Financial Responsibility: "Emergency Quarters" introduces children to the concept of saving money and making thoughtful financial decisions. It provides an opportunity for parents and educators to discuss the importance of saving, budgeting, and understanding the value of money.
3. Highlighting Family Values: The story emphasizes the importance of family and working together during difficult times. This helps reinforce the idea that family support is invaluable. Readers learn he well-being of loved ones is more important than material possessions.
4. Encouraging Decision-Making Skills: Leo's journey to make a difficult decision teaches children about weighing options and considering the consequences of their actions. It promotes critical thinking and helps children understand that sometimes the right decision may not be easy.

About the Author and Illustrator

Carlos Matias is a second-generation Dominican born and raised in Corona, Queens. He has a master's degree in branding and integrated communications from the City College of New York. children’s author known for his heartfelt stories that focus on the importance of family, empathy, and social values.

His work in children's literature often centers around relatable, everyday situations that highlight the power of kindness and community. Matias has a talent for creating narratives that are thought-provoking, allowing young readers to see themselves in his characters. "Emergency Quarters" is a testament to his ability to address complex social and emotional topics.

Gracey Zhang is trained as an illustrator at the Rhode Island School of Design. She has won an Ezra Jack Keats Award. As an illustrator, she is celebrated for her ability to convey emotion through her distinctive artistic style. Her illustrations are known for their warmth, expressiveness, and the way they enhance the storytelling experience. In "Emergency Quarters,"

Zhang's art brings depth and emotion to the story, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. Zhang’s work in children’s literature is characterized by her focus on visual storytelling that supports and enhances the emotional journey of the narrative, making her illustrations a key component of the books she works on. Her art captures both the joy and challenges of childhood, making her an influential figure in contemporary picture book illustration.

She has a website at www.graceyzhang.com