Águila, María Dolores. Sea of Lemon Trees, A: The Corrido of Roberto Alvarez. Roaring Brook, 09/25. 273 [+8]pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-1-2503-4261-4. GRADES 3–7. OUTSTANDING.
Twelve-year-old Mexican American Roberto is apprehensive about serving as the plaintiff in a lawsuit against his San Diego school district. This novel in verse, longlisted for the National Book Award, employs lyrical prose to bring to light life in la colonia, Roberto’s Lemon Grove neighborhood, in 1931. Abundant back matter provides historical context around the history that preceded the case, plus an epilogue of what happened after, as well as explaining language choice of some terms used in the book. Unlike many novels in verse with a large cast, the book’s characterization of the community members is very strong. While there have been other children’s books on this historical event, this exemplary book belongs on every library shelf. Includes California-specific content.
Beth Gousman—Montclair Elementary School / Oakland Unified School District