Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey, written and illustrated by Erin Entrada Kelly. Greenwillow, Harper. 2021. $21.00 ages 6 and up

 

"Jada rushes outside. Marisol follows her, but 
suddenly she doesn't feel like making movies
anymore. Jada hops onto booster branch and up 
she goes. The higher Jada climbs in Peppina, the 
less Marisol feels like playing. 

Marisol slows her pace across the yard. When 
she finally reaches Peppina, she looks up, and 
Jada looks down. Jada is perched on knobby 
branch."

Readers are immediately introduced to Peppina, the magnolia tree in Marisol's Louisiana back yard. Named by Marisol because she is of the belief that all important things should have a name, Peppina stands tall and proud without realising she poses a huge problem for Marisol. Her brother and her best friend love Peppina; her massive branches invite them to find comfort and peace above the ground. Above the ground is the difficulty Peppina presents for Marisol. Marisol is terrified of falling. There is no incentive for her to even try climbing. 

She wants to feel the same joy Jada feels when she is straddling a branch and looking around the neighborhood. Jada is happy to let Marisol know what she can see. Jada is the best kind of friend. She never tries to persuade Marisol to try something she fears. Marisol's overactive imagination often keeps her from doing what she wants to do. Always wondering 'what if?', she finds herself not willing to try anything that scares her. It doesn't stop the friends from having a good deal of fun and adventure. 

Might this be the year that Marisol finds enough courage to give climbing a try? 

Told in the third person, the story presents many events that most children will find familiar. The writing is often humorous and always heartfelt. Truth is spoken here. Short chapters and entertaining artwork ensure a enjoyable read for those looking for a chapter book they can tackle on their own.

Readers who have some fears of their own will find a kindred spirit in Marisol Rainey. Great news! This is the first book in a brand-new series.  

“That’s the thing about best friends,” Marisol notes. “They don’t care about all the things you can’t do.”