From North to South/Del Norte al Sur

René Colato Laínez, illus. by Joe Cepeda, Children's Book Press (PGW, dist.), $17.95 (32p) ISBN 978-0-89239-231-5

This moving bilingual picture book tackles a difficult issue with grace. José's Mexican-born mother was deported to Tijuana, and as the story opens, José and his father are preparing to drive down from San Diego to see her. Their reunion is understandably joyous, and Cepeda offers several tender scenes during a visit that is all too short. Laínez keeps his story grounded in reality: José's mother says she'll come home as soon as she can (a lawyer is working on her case), and José promises to visit every weekend. A solid resource for children in José's situation. Ages 6–up. (Sept.)

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