Something Like Home

Arango's writing is a joy to read, combining strong storytelling, compelling characters, and rich language....Beautifully executed.

Latinx 11-year-old Laura Rodríguez Colón believes that it's her fault she was separated from her parents and sent to live with her aunt, Titi Sylvia, a "rich perfect stranger" who resides on the other side of Laura's Virginia county. If she hadn't called 911, she thinks, her parents wouldn't have been sent to rehab for substance reliance, and she wouldn't be staring down the barrel of an uncertain future with Titi Sylvia, whose emotionally closed-off nature makes Laura feel isolated. Though she'd rather be with her parents, she's elated when Titi Sylvia lets her keep the abandoned pup that Laura finds in town, which she names Sparrow. When Laura is told that she can't visit her parents in rehab, she resolves to train Sparrow as a therapy dog, because "Children may not be allowed in Harmonic Way... but apparently therapy dogs and their owners/ are." Laura's improvised training seems to go well, until a disastrous event imperils her hard work. In moving, approachable verse, Arango (Iveliz Explains It All) thoughtfully portrays Laura's guilt and the constant push-and-pull of her desire to be with her parents and her growing connection with Titi Sylvia. Abundant bird facts--which Laura learned on daily walks with her father--add sensitive insight into Laura's interpretation of family and loyalty. Ages 10-14. (Sept.)

Gr 4 Up--Everything in Laura's life is wrong, and it is all her fault. If she hadn't called 911, then the police wouldn't have found her parents on pills, and she wouldn't have been sent to live with an aunt she doesn't know while her parents are in rehab. Haunted by her guilt and lack of autonomy, Laura is struggling to find a place in a new school and in a house with rules she doesn't understand when she discovers an abandoned puppy and sets out to train him as a therapy dog. Maybe he will be the key to visiting her parents so she can apologize and they can all go home together. Extraordinarily honest and sensitive, this novel in verse tactfully and gracefully deals with foster and kinship care and some of the many emotions involved. Laura and her aunt are both Puerto Rican, although Laura doesn't speak fluent Spanish, and some simple Spanish phrases are included through their dialogue. The verse format and word choice make this a more accessible option than some other books on similar topics. Throughout the story, Laura learns to accept that her love for her parents does not make her responsible for their actions, and to allow herself to have space in her heart for all those who love and care for her. An author's note supplies more information for readers who are not familiar with foster/kinship care, as well as encouragement to those who have experienced it firsthand. VERDICT So much affirmation, exploration, and positivity for those in similar situations are packed beautifully into these verses, making it a solid addition to collections.--Emily Beasley

Arango's follow-up to her Newbery Honor debut is a triumph for readers who need the hug without having to ask for it.