Los Latidos de Yago

July 1, 2011

K-Gr 3-A snail travels around the world in a shell hanging from a sailor's neck. After their many adventures together, the necklace breaks, leaving the little creature facing a new reality. She is found on the sand and given to a young child named Yago, who is physically disabled and unable to talk. She is disappointed because she believes her existence will now be lonely and boring. With time, she realizes that there are many people who love and communicate with Yago in different ways. She also becomes aware of the changes in his heartbeat as he responds to the different people in his life. The snail takes a new interest in life and becomes his friend. This moving and tender story brings to life the experiences of children with physical differences and disabilities. Carretero's watercolor illustrations are soft, warm, and imaginative, expressing the story's emotions and moods. A fine addition to most collections.-Liliana Patricia Rocha, Teton County Library, Jackson, WY

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.