Eloísa’s Musical Window

Written by John Parra (illus.) Margarita Engle
Review by Elizabeth Caulfield Felt

Eloísa’s family is too poor to own a radio, but she can listen to her neighbor’s radio from her window. She also hears wild birds, pets, and other animals. When people play music in the street, Eloísa’s ill mother gets better. This simple story brings to life a moment in time and the beauty of Cuba and its music. The story is a poem with some Spanish words and sounds. Every page is full of color and hope. End text describes the musical instruments of Cuba. Ages 3-7.