A review by marpesea
Islandborn by Junot Díaz

5.0

Lola is at a loss when her teacher asks the class to draw pictures of where they are from. She left the Island when she was so young that she has no memories, so her teacher suggests she talk to friends and family who could share their recollections.

Díaz's characters reflect on the music, food, wildlife and lush beauty of the Island as well as storms and the reason why many left. The book is an honest, but child-friendly look at the complexity of loving a place and having to leave. The illustrations are bright and beautiful, matching the story.