Labels

Josefina's Surprise (American Girl: Josefina #3) by Valerie Tripp

 

Summary (from the publisher): Christmas won't be the same without Mamá, and Josefina fears one special tradition will be forgotten. But La Noche Buena—Christmas Eve—brings surprises for all.

Review: In this third book that covers Josefina's story, Christmas is approaching and while exciting, it brings up lots of memories of their late mother for Josefina and her three sisters. Josefina would love to play the role of Maria in Las Posadas but fears she will be too emotional to participate. 

Josefina's stories are very family centered, specifically on the loss of her mother and how the family is coping in her absence. Josefina is lucky to continue to get to know her aunt, her mother's younger sister better in this book, as it is a way to connect with her mother and hear memories of her life. Tia Delores is very considerate of the girls' feelings and does a lot to help remember their mother and contribute to the household. 

This was a beautiful book in the series that really highlights religious experiences and traditions of people who lived in New Mexico during the time period of the book in the mid 1800s. While hopefully not all young readers who read this can relate to the loss of a close loved one at such a tender age, it focuses on relevant topics that girls from any time period can appreciate. I still think Josefina is much tamer in her exploits and adventures than other American Girls, but I do love her story and sweet disposition while navigating loss. 

Stars: 4

Related Titles: 

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts