cover image 22 Huerfanos

22 Huerfanos

Tjibbe Veldkamp. Fondo de Cultura Economica USA, $13.99 (0pp) ISBN 978-968-16-6291-2

PreS-Gr 2-This is a wonderful story about 22 orphans running rampant in a large, old-fashioned orphanage. Since they don't have very many toys, the children play on or with or under whatever they can find. This leads to all sorts of precarious and even life-threatening games. When a new director is hired she tries to keep the rambunctious children under control. Not only does she fail to curb their high-spirited, imaginative play, she is also lured into their way of life. This story is so politically incorrect by current standards kids cavorting on rooftops and swinging from third floor balconies, the directress sharing a bed with the orphanage inspector, etc. that one can't imagine it published in this country by any but the most intrepid imprint. Frankly, it's hilarious. Kids will enjoy the vicarious peek into the unfettered play of these ""lucky"" orphans. The whimsical illustrations complement the tone of the text nicely. Recommended for school and public libraries as well as bookstores. Maria Otero-Boisvert, Criticas