Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote

K-Gr 2—This allegorical tale describes the many struggles immigrants face as they attempt to cross the border between the United States and Mexico. Pancho Rabbit's Papa has left home to find work in the Northern fields. But when Papa does not return as expected, Pancho sets out to find him. He packs a backpack full of Papa's favorite foods and heads out into the night. It isn't long before he meets Coyote, who offers to show Pancho the quickest route to his father in exchange for some food from the backpack. Together, Pancho and Coyote navigate a moving train, a rushing river, a high fence, and a hot desert. But, when Pancho runs out of food, Coyote turns on him and threatens to eat him. Narrator Luis Moreno's steady pacing helps move the story along, and his emphasis of certain Spanish words gives readers a better understanding of the vocabulary. His voice changes throughout to reflect the anxiety and determination Pancho experiences while on his quest. The book's (Abrams, 2013) flat drawings are reminiscent of ancient Mexican artwork, but the computer-created collages add a modern twist and vibrant colors to the illustrations. This will tie in well with units on immigration and discussions about migrant laborers.—Anne Bozievich, Friendship Elementary School, Glen Rock, PA