Reading: ALONG THE TAPAJOS - Fernando Vilela (author), Daniel Hahn (translator)

Originally published in Brazil, this picture book is an intriguing, one-of-a-kind look at a pair of children - brother and sister Caua and Inae - whose town must evacuate when the rainy season arrives. Far from unusual, this is the norm here; the kids live with their parents right on the Tapajos River, where all the houses/buildings are on stilts and even a rides for supplies or to school are done in a boat - and the coming rains necessitate the move to higher ground until the season passes and the waters recede. This time out, however, the siblings realize - after the move - that they've left behind their pet tortoise Titi! Unlike turtles, tortoises cannot swim, so even though forbidden to go back, that night Caua and Inae sneak out under the cover of darkness to rescue their beloved friend. Along the Tapajos is a terrific glimpse into another lifestyle and culture that most children, especially in the States, would probably otherwise not be so readily exposed to, and for this reason alone it belongs in any kid's library. Better still, both story and pictures bring the "wow factor" necessary to draw any kid into this world - even not counting the idea of a pair of kids risking it all to save their pet from harm! Really great as both entertainment and education.  4.5/5 stars