From North to South – Del Norte al Sur
by René Colato Laínez
& Joe Cepeda
From North to South is a very apropos story in the United States’ current discussion about immigration (particularly between the US and Mexico), even though it was written in 2010. I suggest, because of the subject matter, it would be a very good book for elementary-age children to read, followed by discussion.
The illustrations are interesting and colorful. The text is written in both English and Spanish. The author tells the story of a Mexican family that has been separated because the mother has been deported from the US. Luckily, she is able to stay in refugee camp for women and children who have been recently deported or are hoping to enter the US.
I would imagine that children will have questions about why she had to leave the country, how will she be able to return, and what should our country’s position on immigration? They will also probably have an emotional response to the family being apart. It should be a thought-provoking discussion. I thank the author for writing this book.
Reviewed by Lorna McGrath
