An Invisible River To Cross

PreS-Gr 1–Afsi longs to understand her classmates and to feel a sense of belonging in a place where she does not yet speak the language. Using the metaphor of a river Afsi must cross, Matloob illustrates the layered complexity of learning new words, at one point describing them as being flung into a spider’s web as Afsi tries to make sense of them. The narrative incorporates developmentally appropriate metaphors, such as building a bridge across the river or stubbing one’s toes on hidden rocks. However, the story shifts abruptly between ideas: it opens with Afsi comparing her life to fairy tales and concludes with her grasping the meaning of the word “draw” at school. These transitions can feel uneven, and some readers may require guidance from a thoughtful teacher or experienced reader to trace the connections. Additionally, the notion of an “invisible river” and its relationship to Afsi’s cultural heritage remains underdeveloped, an area of potential richness that never fully materializes. Balocuh’s vibrant, textured illustrations deepen the narrative and invite readers into Afsi’s emotional world. Afsi is depicted with brown skin and black hair.