"Their things are still here
as if they just stepped out:
jacket by the door,
hair in the brush,
starlight mints by the bed,
shoes on the floor."
The child whose voice tells this story is confused. His concern is about death and grief. He ponders where loved ones go when they walk on - out of the life he has known with them. There are many places they once loved: the market, the garden, the lake to fish, their other favorite. When they get where they are going, how will they let him know? He knows he will wait because there are things he needs to share. He wants to tell about activities that fill his days, the new accomplishments he has made, the weather. He assumes that walking on is a long journey that might tire them out and lead them back home.
As he watches his family pack up his grandmother's house, he notes that everything is just as she left it. Spending time in each room, he can feel the love that memories hold for him. He smells the household smells, sees the ordinary sights, touches those things that are so familiar, hears common kitchen sounds and travels back in his memory to times spent with his grandmother.
"When they walk on ,
they stay with us
like the glimmer of a distant star."
Everything they have been will always be a part of those they leave behind; those left will always walk on together in their honor.
This is an exquisite explanation of grief, sure to assuage hearts that are dealing with the death of a loved one. Rafael Lopez captures the essence of cultural traditions using acrylic, watercolor, and colored pencils assembled digitally to bring beauty, warmth and understanding. He blends the Seminole connections of the author with his own Mexican influences in his spectacular images. Careful observation will result in welcome discoveries.
Back matter is a valuable addition, including explanatory notes from both creators, and a recipe for Kevin's Grape Dumplings.
"Maybe they're just running late
and they will call me
from their special place."
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