Emilio and His Dream Circus (Bilingual: English & Spanish)

Illustrated by Citlali Reyes
Published by Lil' Libros
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
LIST PRICE $19.99

About The Book

A bilingual picture book in English and Spanish that shows how, when a busy day gets in the way of play, a dreamland circus reminds one family that the greatest magic of all is time spent together.

After a long day at school, all Emilio wants is to play with Mom and Dad. But between after-school activities, chores, and a whole lot of "maybe later," playtime never comes. Disappointed and tucked into bed, Emilio drifts off to sleep... and tumbles into a dreamlike circus where the impossible comes alive.

Beneath a glowing big top, Emilio explores a world of wonder—leaping peanuts, juggling dinosaurs, unicycling robots, and dazzling surprises at every turn. Yet amid the magic, something feels familiar. Again and again, Emilio catches glimpses of Mom and Dad, woven into the spectacle. As the dream whirls on, it becomes clear just how deeply Emilio longed for their time together. This warm, enchanting bilingual picture book celebrates imagination, family connection, and the moments that matter most—reminding families that the simplest moments of togetherness are often the ones worth choosing first.

About The Authors

Nayeli Reyes was born in Mazatlán, Mexico. She is Emilio’s mother, a chef and photographer specialized in food and products. She recalls devouring any book that came to her hands at a young age; with a special weakness for children’s books; now she’s trying to share this lovely activity with Emilio. She likes to combine her love for books with her cooking, creating recipes inspired by literature for her youtube channel. In her spare time, you may find her doing DIY projects: crochet, watercolor or origami, baking sourdough bread and playing with Emilio and her husband Alejandro.

Alejandro Ochoa is the father of two lovely boys, Emilio and Oliver, and the husband of the wonderful Nayeli Reyes.  Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, he grew up in a house full of books that made him imagine impossible worlds, which became possible after he had a family of his own. He loves never-ending stories, long walks in the hundred-acre woods, and watching sunsets at menhir quarries. Among other things, he is a biologist who has worked for many years in the esoteric field of scientific and regulatory affairs.

About The Illustrator

Citlali Reyes is a Mexican author, illustrator, and art director with over ten years of experience in children’s publishing. She has illustrated more than forty bilingual children’s books with Lil’ Libros and debuted as both author and illustrator with Sana, sana, colita de rana. Her work draws from childhood memories, family traditions, and everyday moments of wonder. Traveling, stargazing, and photography fuel her creative toolbox, but her greatest inspiration comes from reading with her son, whose curiosity and laughter color her world. 

Product Details

  • Publisher: Lil' Libros (September 29, 2026)
  • Length: 32 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781948066358
  • Grades: P - 3
  • Ages: 4 - 8

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