Regina Hanson

Dora was subject to the teasing of the older kids she walked to school with, convincing her that she wouldn't be able to walk with them anymore if she didn't try to steal a mango from the strange neighborhood lady's yard. Dora learns the lesson that people are not always as they seem, or as people make them out to be. By talking with the "face in the window" instead of judging it from afar, she has the chance to understand Ms. Nella better and realize she's not as scary as she thought after all. I like how the story line really unveils the miscommunication that can occur when you don't get to know someone personally before passing judgement. This was an interesting way for children to read about mental illness, how those who suffer from it are human- gentle, loving, and not to be afraid of.… (meer)

A great book about a family in Jamaica with a father who moves to New York in order to support his wife and kids. Little girl Ida can't bear a thought of her papa leaving for a long time but his promise to come back by the time Ida can read well, gives the little girl hope and warm feelings to cope with heartache. Ida also squeezes a tangerine juice into a bottle for daddy to take with him to cold New York. As reader finds out, it is believed that Mistress Sun sprinkles down bits of sun and puts them inside of the tangerines, and I think, that's beautiful. The illustrations convey the heat, the tropical atmosphere, and the love and care of that sweet family perfectly.… (meer)