Mama, I'll Give You the World by Roni Schotter

Illustrated by S. Saelig Gallagher. 34 pages. Schwartz & Wade, 2006.

When a child can count on a parent's empathy and care, they can give each other the world. Luisa's single mother works hard as a hair stylist to save money for Luisa's college education - a way to give Luisa the world. Luisa comes to the salon after school and does her homework, and then entertains herself while Mama works. Mama seems sad in ways that Luisa is too young to understand. Luisa gives her mother a surprise birthday party that helps Mama to reconnect with her capacity for joy - and in doing this, she has given Mama the world. Using Luisa as an example, children will understand that their love is truly meaningful to people close to them.

Ages: 4-8
Cultural Context: multicultural