La luna mango

Ten-year-old Maricela stares at the mango-colored moon, reminiscing on the many nights during which she and her father did the same before his deportation. Social worker and scholar de Anda frankly presents simple responses to the questions immigrant children might have after being separated from their parents. This Spanish version of the simultaneous English publication is sometimes awkward in its phrasing, but overall this is a much-needed text for many libraries serving families in similar situations. Though the book covers a heavy subject, Cornelison's evocative, light-filled spreads add a hint of hope, even while depicting how Maricela's dad's plight affects the whole family through finances, living situations, school performance. Touching and timely, this is a strong choice for picture-book shelves, especially where bibliotherapy is needed.--Shelley M. Diaz Copyright 2010 Booklist