Star in the Forest

A vivid, moving story that offers a compelling perspective on illegal immigrants. ( )

A well told true to life story that many Mexicans who cross the border looking for a better life face. The fear and uncertainty that young Zitlally feels for her father and family is portrayed in easy terms that young readers will understand. In this tale, when Zitlally's father is deported back to Mexico, she finds comfort in the language and stories her father has told her through the years. Caring for an abused dog name Star, Zitlally strikes up a friendship with a girl who lives in the trailer park and realizes that caring for Star is also insuring her father's safe return. Laura Resau's book is one that easily can be adapted as a classroom unit on Mexico, immigration and being poor without resources to turn to in time of need. ( )

Touching story of 11-year-old Zitlally and her family’s struggle to free her illegal immigrant father and bring him back to their home after he’s deported to Mexico. The first person narrative makes for a real-life depiction of her family’s struggle with the law, coyote traders, and keeping the family intact. Star, an abused dog in her trailer park, gives comfort to Zitlally in her depressed surroundings. A glossary and vocabulary guide in the index help readers with Spanish terms and words. This book has pertinent information and a realistic storyline for the times, especially for young Arizona readers. ( )

Zitlally's parents are immigrants from Mexico. When her father is deported back to Mexico, she is so sad that she stops trying to fit in with the popular girls at school. She find a dog tied up in a car junkyard, and befriends it and feeds it. She comes to believe that the fate of the dog is connected to her father's fate. A lovely gentle story of friendship and standing firm. Has a ring of truth. Includes a note on immigration and a glossary of Nahuatl and Spanish words.

Zitlally is an illegal immigrant living in Colorado with her family, until one day her father is deported back to Mexico, leaving Zitlally with her mother and sisters. She is heartbroken but finds comfort in an abandoned dog, who she names Star, and a new friend.

Positive review from School Library Journal 2/1/2010.

This could definitely launch a discussion of immigration, including why immigrants come illegally, what life is like for them, and the challenges they face. ( )