Reviewed by Cristi Jenkins, Access & Programs, Fort Vancouver Regional Library, WA -- Críticas, 5/15/2008


Ramos, Jorge.
illus. by Akemi Gutiérrez. U.S.: Rayo: HarperCollins. 2008. unpaged. ISBN 978-0-06-12368-7. $16.99.

PRES-GR – A young Hispanic girl and boy each tell how she and he are similar to the same-gendered parent and grandparent. In one half of the book, the girl describes the similarities: green eyes, long hair, a crinkled face when angered, loud sneezes, and a penchant for dancing. Flip the book over and the boy describes his similarities: a pointed nose, long legs, getting chocolate mustaches when drinking cocoa, and reading stories at bedtime. When both children ask their parents about any family resemblances, they are directed to look in a mirror where they can see their entire family reflected in their faces, and thus they will never be alone. Gutierrez’s (Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award winner for Three Little Bears and What the Elephant Told) humorous full-spread watercolor illustrations complement this story, making it a delight to read. Pleasant, prominently featured people, with rounded oversize faces, are set against pastel backgrounds featuring ordinary family life—which includes a whimsical dog cavorting through the illustrations, sleeping under a pile of yarn, being scared by sneezes, and floating through the night sky like an astronaut. Emmy Award-winning journalist and author Ramos (Dying to Cross, HarperCollins, 2006) has created a lively picture book with an endearing message, and the fact that the boy likes to read with his father makes him a good role model for the young audience. Highly recommended for school and public libraries, as well as bookstores.