Saudade: Our Longing for Brazil by Ana Crespo, illustrated by André Ceolin. Neal Porter Books, 2024. 9780823452293
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
Format: Hardcover picture book
What did you like about the book? A little girl walking with her Mamãe explores the concept of saudade. When something pleasant reminds Mamãe of Brazil, she whispers, “Que saudade!” The girl finds out it’s like the soft wind of the ocean, or music that reminds her mother of her childhood. When the girl remembers with longing the fun she had playing with her cousins in Brazil, she experiences saudade too.
This sweet book takes place over the course of a walk through the wilderness, with soft, natural colors all around. Swirls frame pleasant memories, allowing readers to imagine what mother and child are picturing in their minds. The text contains words in Portuguese which are defined in a glossary at the end. This is a lovely, thoughtful look at a unique word. Although there’s no direct translation into English, readers will understand the poignant longing it evokes.
Anything you didn’t like about it? No
To whom would you recommend this book? A nice book to read while thinking about family who are far away, for ages 4-8.
Who should buy this book? Elementary school and public libraries, especially where there’s a Portuguese population.
Where would you shelve it? Picture books
Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? No
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Stephanie Tournas, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA
Date of review: June 12, 2024
Youth Services Book Review 
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