Emergency Quarters

Author Carlos Matias and Ezra Jack Keats Awardwinning illustrator Gracey Zhang deliver a stunning picture book based on a finalist in the New York Times Metropolitan Diary Best of the Year, about a young boy in the city who tries his best to avoid spending his precious quarters on tempting local treats in case of an emergency. A poignant, playful tale for fans of Matt de La Peña, Antwan Eady, and Jacqueline Woodson.  

Ernesto has waited his whoooole life to become a niño grande. A big boy. Now hes finally old enough to walk the six blocks to school without his parents.

Every morning, his mom hands him a shiny new quarter and reminds him theyre for emergencies. If Ernesto needs her, shes only a pay phone call away. But each day reveals a tempting new treat to enjoy with his friends: crisp packs of baseball cards, arcade games, hot tamales, and fresh juices! Ernesto has the coins jingling in his pocket, so how will he choose to spend them