Marisol and the Yellow Messenger

Ethel King-Shaw is a professor emeritus of curriculum and instruction at
the University of Calgary.

Both the author and the illustrator have experienced life in different
cultures, and their combined experiences provide insights into the life
of an immigrant family.

Shortly after her father is killed, 8-year-old Marisol and her family
flee to Canada. The young Spanish-speaking girl has to adjust not only
to a new language but also to a very different way of life. Frequently,
her thoughts are far away, imagining she is back in her grandparents’
home.

One night, during a fierce storm, Marisol has a vivid dream about her
ancestors weaving a brilliantly colored piece of cloth. She awakes
comforted by the experience. The next day the children in the family
experience the pleasures of playing in snow. When a small bird flies
into their home to escape the cold, Marisol and her two brothers care
for it. This nurturing experience rekindles comforting words she
remembers hearing from her father.

Overall, this is a very heartwarming story. It does not overlook the
loneliness and homesickness experienced by immigrants, but, by exploring
a new world through the experiences of a young girl, we learn how dreams
can inspire hope and small blessings can provide comfort.

Marisol and the Yellow Messenger is a welcome addition to the growing
number of books on the theme of multiculturalism in Canada. Young
newcomers will readily identify with it. Highly recommended.