Shows what it feels like when a family member or loved one is incarcerated. It wasn't as in depth as I expected it to be, but I think it was just enough for young kids to understand/relate to if they have a loved one who's "away". ( )

4/5

child lives far apart from their incarcerated older brother.

The narrator peers into their older brother’s empty bedroom with a despondent look. “Sometimes I stand in his quiet room and pretend he’s not really gone.” Grappling with the weight of his incarceration amid questions from curious classmates, the child experiences anger, embarrassment, and pain. But their bond is a strong one, and memories remind the protagonist of happier times: a contented smile as the pair snuggled up and read together, arms flung wide with joy during starlit strolls together. The juxtaposition of these different sentiments helps to illuminate the narrator’s reality, particularly when they and their parents make the long drive to see the child’s brother in prison. When they finally reconnect with a warm embrace, the main character realizes that other kids are also in the visiting room, reuniting with their incarcerated family members. Greenwood (who in an author’s note says that she grew up with an incarcerated brother) describes these experiences in simple, poignant language ideal for a range of readers. Also noteworthy is Uribe’s moving artwork; both detailed and restrained, the illustrations bolster the sensitive plot. In the author’s note, Greenwood offers readers reassurance: “If someone you love is in prison, I want you to know you aren’t alone, either.” The child and their family are light-skinned. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

An accessible, validating narrative about the impact of incarceration within families. (Picture book. 4-10)

- Kirkus Review

A book that talks about incarceration is a big deal.

But one that tackles it from the sibling side of things even better.

Many children who have similar situations finally have a resource to make them feel like they are not alone. That there are others like them

I will also note that this book is NOT black protagonist driven. With such a subject matter, it would be far too easy to fall back on stereotypes. I greatly appreciated that this was not the case. ( )

A sad and sadly necessary book about a young girl coping with the imprisonment of her brother. I hope it provides comfort to others who find themselves in the same situation.

(Another project! I'm trying to read all the picture books and graphic novels on the kids section of NPR's Books We Love 2022.) ( )