First, let us introduce Buttercup. Buttercup is our mouse in residence at the Main Library of the Nashville Public Library. She lives in the Children’s Department, and since the Main Library has been closed, many of our friends have been wondering what she has been up to.

What is Buttercup up to?

Buttercup has been very busy! She has been traveling from branch to branch, visiting friends, and reading many wonderful books along the way. Recently, Buttercup attended CuentaCuentos, our Spanish Storytime, because she is eager to learn Spanish through this immersive program. (See Buttercup enjoying Spanish Storytime below!) Buttercup loved Miss Sol’s puppet, Kiwi!!!

What is Buttercup Reading?

To keep practicing what she has learned, Buttercup has also been reading bilingual books and stories that include Spanish words. She discovered that learning a new language can be fun, silly, and full of surprises.

Here are some of Buttercup’s favorite bilingual books that introduce Spanish in fun and engaging ways.

Hola. ¡Adiós!

Buttercup loves this title for its playful Skeletown characters, who introduce two simple Spanish words—hola (hello) and adiós (goodbye)—making it a delightful and accessible choice for first-time language learners.

I Want More! =: Quiero más! 

Follow the adventures of Lolo and Birdie—a bird and a dinosaur whose playful friendship makes learning Spanish engaging and fun.

Plátanos Go With Everything =: Los plátanos van con todo

Buttercup had fun learning about Dominican food—and now she really wants to try plantains!

Wepa: English & Spanish

Shouting “WEPA!” and dancing along to burn off some energy made this fun, engaging bilingual book one of Buttercup’s favorites!

The Ofrenda That We Built

Buttercup learned a lot about the tradition and culture of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) while reading this colorful, engaging picture book.

Old Clothes for Dinner?!

Ropa vieja for dinner? Buttercup thought this book was hilarious—after all, who would want to eat old clothes? The silly misunderstanding makes this a fun and memorable read.

If Your Babysitter Is a Bruja

This imaginative story is the perfect mix of spooky and silly, making it a fun Halloween read that even Buttercup couldn’t resist picking up!

¡Mistaco! 

Buttercup was pleasantly surprised by this picture book, which reminds readers that it’s okay to make mistakes. By making “mistacos” and openly acknowledging their own missteps, the family helps Izzy feel supported and confident as she learns.

Join us for Storytime!

Stay tuned for Buttercup’s next adventure—and join us at the Southeast Branch for CuentaCuentos with Miss Sol and Kiwi every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.