Ana’s mother is having a hard time adapting after the family moves from Mexico to the United States. At school, Ana is learning English. She and Papá practice each night at home. But her mother is home alone all day with Ana’s twin baby brothers. She misses her friends and relatives. And she dreads going to the market, where the impatient store clerk snaps at her for not knowing English. Susan Middleton Elya realistically portrays some of the difficulties faced by immigrants to this country who don’t speak English in a sensitive and engaging story that is told in third-person but maintains a child’s perspective on events. Felipe Davalos fine illustrations reflect all the warmth in Ana’s family, as well as the weariness, uncertainly, and, finally, pride that Ana’s mother feels as she begins to tackle the challenges she faces head on. (Ages 5-8)

Ana Patino is adjusting well to her new life in the United States, but her mother is having a difficult time because she doesn't speak English. When Ana's baby brother falls ill, Mama tries to get help, but no one can understand her. Now convinced of the need to learn the native language, Mama agrees to take English lessons. As her knowledge of the English language grows, so does her sense of confidence and belonging.