Friendship, Hope, Belonging, and Adorable Animals shine in Gaby, Lost and Found by Angela Cervantes
- Mikayla Young
- Jan 5
- 7 min read
Finding a book that captures the heart of friendship, hope, and the joy of belonging is a rare treasure. Gaby, Lost and Found by Angela Cervantes is one such story that brings these themes to life with warmth and charm. This book not only tells a compelling story but also introduces readers to lovable animals that add an extra layer of delight. Whether you are a parent, educator, or young reader, this book offers meaningful lessons wrapped in an engaging narrative.
Book Information
Title: Gaby, Lost and Found
Author: Angela Cervantes
Publisher: Scholastic
Publication Date: 2013
Age Category: Middle Grade
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Recommended Age: 8+
Format Type: Novel
Formats Available: eBook, Paperback, Hardcover, Audiobook
Format Read:, Hardcover
Representation: Survivors of Animal Abuse/Neglect, and the Impact of Deportations on the Families of Deported Individuals.
Reading Challenges: Physical TBR, Little Free Library Books
Book Synopsis
In a heartfelt tale of resilience and hope, Gaby, Lost and Found introduces us to Gaby Ramirez Howard, a spirited sixth grader with a passion for animals and an unwavering belief in the power of love and family. Gaby is on a quest—not just for a forever home, but for a place where she can share warm breakfasts with her best friend and find companionship in a beloved cat.
Gaby’s life has taken a tumultuous turn. With her mother recently deported to Honduras, she finds herself living with her distracted father, feeling more like a stray than ever. Despite the challenges, Gaby pours her heart into volunteering at the local animal shelter, nurturing abandoned kittens and training rambunctious dogs. She crafts heartfelt adoption ads, determined to help the strays find their own forever homes.
As Gaby dreams of reuniting with her mother and adopting her favorite shelter cat, the unexpected arrival of the cat’s original owners threatens to shatter her hopes for a perfect family. Will Gaby's dreams of love and belonging come true, or will she have to navigate the complexities of loss and longing alone?
This poignant story celebrates the strength of the human spirit, the importance of community, and the undeniable bond between humans and animals. Join Gaby on her journey of self-discovery, as she learns that home is not just a place, but a feeling of love, acceptance, and hope.
If you were making an animal adoption flyer story like Gaby, what would you put in it? A picture, details about their favorite treats and toys, or maybe some info about their personalities?
Have you ever volunteered at an animal shelter? If so, share how it inspired you or what you learned about animals and their stories!
My Rating and Review
My Rating: ★★★★★
The characters in this narrative are not only relatable but also deeply realistic, infused with humor and intricately developed backgrounds that resonate with readers on multiple levels. Gaby, the main character, stands out as a remarkable protagonist, embodying qualities that allow readers to connect with her on a personal level. Throughout her journey, readers experience a spectrum of emotions alongside her — they laugh at her witty observations, cry during her moments of vulnerability, and smile at her triumphs, all while witnessing her growth and evolution as a person. Her unwavering love for her friends, family, and the animals she cares for at the shelter creates a heartwarming narrative that underscores the importance of compassion and empathy in our lives.
Gaby’s circle of best friends is a delightful ensemble that brings additional layers of personality and humor to the story. Each friend contributes their unique traits and quirks, showcasing the strength and diversity of their supportive group. Their interactions not only add comedic relief but also enhance the book's overall heartwarming vibes, illustrating the power of friendship and community in navigating life's challenges. The dynamic among the friends serves as a reminder of the importance of having a solid support system, especially during difficult times.
The settings in the book are crafted with meticulous detail, creating immersive environments that feel both realistic and relatable. Readers can easily visualize the bustling atmosphere of the animal shelter, the warmth of Gaby’s home, and the vibrant community around her. The descriptive writing draws readers in, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of each scene vividly. This level of detail not only enhances the storytelling but also helps readers form a deeper emotional connection with the characters and their experiences.
The plot itself is intricately woven, featuring a well-developed storyline that is filled with action, emotion, and realism. The narrative expertly balances moments of excitement with poignant emotional beats, ensuring that readers remain engaged throughout. Each mini side plot is thoughtfully tied into the main narrative, culminating in a satisfying resolution that wraps up all the storylines neatly. One particularly touching element is the inclusion of Gaby's handwritten adoption flyer stories for each animal at the shelter. These flyers serve as a brilliant addition to the narrative, allowing readers to gain insight into the personalities and backgrounds of the animals through Gaby's eyes. This not only humanizes the animals but also showcases Gaby's talent for observation and her heartfelt dedication to her work at the shelter.
While the book addresses some challenging themes, such as the deportation of Gaby's mother, it does so with sensitivity and care. This topic, while difficult, is crucial as it reflects real issues faced by families today. The narrative effectively illustrates the far-reaching effects of such situations, impacting not only the individuals directly involved but also their friends, neighbors, and the community at large. This exploration of serious themes is balanced with moments of levity and hope, ensuring that the overall tone remains accessible and engaging.
Additionally, the book sheds light on the heartbreaking reality of animal dumping while celebrating the heroic efforts of animal shelters. It portrays the tireless work done by volunteers and staff to rescue these animals, restore their health, and find them loving homes. Through Gaby’s experiences, readers learn valuable lessons about kindness, the importance of not judging others before knowing their stories, respect for all beings, and gratitude for what one has. The narrative addresses these lessons in a manner that is both emotional and thought-provoking, steering clear of a preachy tone.
"Gaby, Lost and Found" by Angela Cervantes emerges as a beautiful story woven with themes of hope, second chances, belonging, family, self-discovery, and kindness. It serves as an excellent choice for readers who are looking for a book that features animals, animal shelters, the bonds of found and blood family, friendship, and the journey of self-discovery. However, parents, librarians, and educators should be aware that this book might inspire young readers to consider adopting a pet or volunteering at their local animal shelter. The heartfelt narrative and engaging characters are sure to leave a lasting impression, encouraging a sense of responsibility and empathy towards both animals and fellow humans alike.
Discussion Questions
What does friendship mean to Gaby, and how does it evolve throughout the story?
How do Gaby's experiences with animals at the shelter reflect her own search for belonging?
In what ways does the theme of hope manifest in Gaby's journey?
How does Gaby cope with the challenges of her mother's deportation, and what does this teach us about resilience?
Discuss the role of community in Gaby's life. How do her friends and the shelter staff support her?
What impact do you think Gaby's experiences have on her understanding of family and home?
How does the book address the issue of animal neglect and the importance of animal shelters?
What lessons can be learned from Gaby's interactions with the animals she cares for?
Activities
Before Reading
Discuss what the concepts of friendship, home, and belonging mean to you and how they might relate to the book's themes.
Create a list of qualities that make a good friend. How do these qualities compare to Gaby's friendships in the story?
During Reading
Keep a journal of Gaby's emotional journey. Note specific moments that make you feel happy, sad, or inspired.
Draw or describe your favorite animal character from the book and explain why they resonate with you.
As you read, highlight passages that illustrate Gaby's growth and resilience. Discuss these with a partner or group.
After Reading
Host a discussion circle where readers can share their thoughts on the ending of the book. Do they think Gaby found her sense of belonging?
Plan a community service project, such as volunteering at a local animal shelter or organizing a pet adoption event.
Write a letter to Gaby as if you were her friend. Offer her advice or encouragement based on your understanding of her journey.
Create a visual representation (like a collage or poster) that captures the main themes of the book, such as friendship, hope, and community.
Create your own adoption flyer story for an animal in your life or one from the book.
About the Author
About the Author
Angela Cervantes, named for her angelic appearance by her mother, is a dedicated children's author passionate about writing stories that resonate with Latinx children. Her career, shaped by childhood dreams, also includes aspirations of running a rescue home for animals and owning an empanada truck. Angela's writing journey began with storytelling in her youth, earning recognition from teachers and delighting friends with scary tales.
Her latest novel, "Anomalies 53: Into The Shadows," highlights her imaginative storytelling, while her other acclaimed works include "Lety Out Loud," a Pura Belpré Honor Book, and "The Cursed Moon," a Florida Sunshine State Young Readers Award recipient. "Gaby, Lost and Found" and "Me, Frida and the Secret of the Peacock Ring" showcase her creativity, with the latter inspired by Frida Kahlo.
Angela's collaborations include contributions to American Girl Dolls and adaptations of Disney/Pixar films "Coco" and "Encanto" into junior novels. Her books are widely available, and she encourages supporting local bookstores. Angela connects with readers through her YouTube channel, sharing insights and inspirations.
Fun facts about Angela reveal her Mexican American roots, love for warm pretzels, emotional sports fandom, and a history as a high school newspaper editor. She enjoys scary stories, practices Spanish, and cherishes Guadalajara, Mexico. Angela's compassion extends to helping animals cross the street safely.
Where to Buy the Book
Gaby, Lost and Found is widely available through various retailers:
Local independent bookstores (supporting local businesses is always encouraged)
Public libraries (check availability for borrowing) .
Conclusion
Gaby, Lost and Found by Angela Cervantes is a heartfelt exploration of friendship, resilience, and the search for belonging. Through Gaby’s journey, readers are not only entertained but also enlightened about the challenges many face in their personal lives and the importance of community and compassion. Cervantes weaves a narrative that is both engaging and educational, encouraging young readers to reflect on their own relationships and the impact they can have on the world around them. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that resonates with the values of empathy and kindness, making it a perfect addition to any bookshelf. Whether you are reading it for enjoyment or as a tool for discussion, the lessons within its pages are sure to inspire and uplift.
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