Fall 2025

Isabel's Birthday Surprise

  • Interest Level: Preschool - Grade 2
  • Reading Level: Grade 2

Isabel hopes all her birthday wishes will come true. She’s been dreaming of a big party full of her friends and all her family with a giant piñata and cake.

On the big day, Isabel shares her hopes with Mamá, but her mom says that they will have a small fiesta with just family this year. When Isabel tells Abuelo how every birthday needs a piñata, he explains that store-bought piñatas are expensive. Isabel starts to think that it doesn’t even feel like her birthday! Will there even be cake? Abuela reassures her there will be.

But disappointments keep popping up, and a mix-up at lunchtime spells disaster for the rest of the day. Is there anything that can save Isabel’s birthday?

For anyone who’s ever felt the pressures of having a big celebration and had to navigate the challenges and emotions that come with those expectations, Isabel is a relatable character as she learns that sometimes life surprises us and things don’t always go as planned. This heartwarming family story reminds readers of the small touches that make milestones truly special.

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978-1-4338-4750-9
On pre-order until 10/07/2025
$18.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Preschool - Grade 2
Reading Level Grade 2
Genre Picture Books
Category SEL: B Self-Management, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2026
Publisher Magination Press, American Psychological Association
Imprint Magination Press — American Psychological Association
Language English
Number of Pages 32
Publication Date 2025-10-07
Text Type Fiction
BISACS JUV017100, JUV013030, JUV039050
Dewey [E]
Dimensions 8 x 10
Guided Reading Level M
Features Author/Illustrator biography, Author/Illustrator note, and Original artwork

Author: Debbie Zapata

Debbie Zapata, LCSW, works as a counselor in Austin, Texas, assisting families with children who have special needs. Her stories celebrate diversity and honor her Mexican culture.

Illustrator: Gabriella Galvez

Gabriella Galvez is an illustrator living in the heart of Montreal, Canada. Her style embraces bright colors, memorable characters, and always, a dash of whimsy.