cover image Good-bye, Havana! Hola, New York!

Good-bye, Havana! Hola, New York!

Edie Col%C3%B3n, illus. by Ra%C3%BAl Col%C3%B3n. S&S/Wiseman, $16.99 (32p) ISBN 978-1-4424-0674-2

Edie Col%C3%B3n's autobiographical story about making a new life in the Bronx after leaving Cuba in 1960 stars a six-year-old version of herself named Gabriella; Col%C3%B3n describes her journey, emotions, and adjustments to America in simple language. In his signature, almost pointillist style, Ra%C3%BAl Col%C3%B3n's earth-toned artwork imbues the story with a comforting texture and warmth, closely depicting the clothing, hair, and d%C3%A9cor of the era. The dialogue is smoothly rendered in Spanish and English, and many Spanish words are defined on the final page. This gentle look back at an important time will also speak to contemporary children whose families are starting anew in the United States. Ages 4%E2%80%938. (Aug.)