We Belong

Filipino mythology beautifully intertwines a personal immigration story in this free verse novel. Half-Filipino, half-white Stella, nine, and her younger sister Luna request a bedtime story from their mother, Elsie Aguila. Elsie tells the Tagalog myth of Mayari, goddess of the moon, and her siblings, Apolaki and Tala--god and goddess of the sun and stars--who were raised on Earth until the death of their mother. There they learn their father is Bathala Maykapal, Great Creator God; they must leave Earth with only a few belongings to follow their father to Heaven, where they struggle to assimilate. Mirroring the myth, Elsie and her family are forced to leave their homeland during the violence of Ferdinand Marcos's presidency, "tak only what can carry" to the U.S. in a 50-pound suitcase. Deeply poignant, at times involving trauma, the tales are relayed in blue and black type, picking up where the last leaves off in alternating chapters. Infusing the heart of Pinoy culture into a moving, accessible bedtime narrative, this "story of outsiders" will resonate with anyone who has felt estranged in the place they call home. Ages 10-up. Agent: Sarah Burnes, the Gernert Co. (Mar.)

Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 4 Up--Sisters Stella and Luna ask their mother, Elsie, for a story one night before bed. Elsie shares with them two stories that weave together and complement each other. First, she tells the story of Dalisay, mother of three demigods; second, the story of Elsie's own childhood and mother who was abusive. Because of this, Elsie found herself always searching for other, better, mothers in stories. Told in verse, mixing Tagalog and English, the plot takes place through flashbacks and current moments. This sweet tale jumps around between Elsie's childhood in the Philippines, her eventual move and adjusting to life in the United States, Filipino culture and mythology, and present-day moments between mother and daughters. A glossary of Tagalog words used is included in the back of the book. VERDICT Everman's debut tackles timely topics such as immigration, and something that all adults and kids yearn for: a sense of belonging. A short, charming tale perfect for easing students into middle grade and longer chapter books.--Alicia Kalan, The Northwest Sch., Seattle

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.