More Than Beans and Rice

By Marc Maxwell

Summer at the Garza ranch is full of laughter, family traditions, and delicious food-but it's also where Mija is about to learn some of life's most important lessons.

When Mija visits her grandparents in South Texas, she has one big goal: learn how to make tamales just like Granny. But making tamales isn't as easy as it looks Between feeding chickens, collecting eggs, grocery shopping, and helping around the ranch, Mija quickly discovers that cooking is about more than following recipes-it's about patience, hard work, and love.

Along the way, Mija faces hilarious adventures with Petey, the energetic border collie who thinks he's in charge of everything, and Gorda, the lazy but clever cat who somehow always ends up in the middle of the action.

Through kitchen mishaps, ranch chores, and heartwarming family moments, Mija learns that traditions connect generations and that love is the most important ingredient of all.

Filled with humor, warmth, and cultural heritage, More Than Beans and Rice is a touching chapter book about family bonds, learning through experience, and celebrating Mexican American traditions.

Perfect for readers ages 8-12, this charming story reminds children that the best lessons are often learned while working together and sharing meals with the people who love you most.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0GQ24GTXQ
• ISBN13: 9798249678944
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 114 Pages
• Weight: 0.26 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 5.0" x 8.0"