Review Detail

I am not sure that a picture book has ever moved me to tears before. The book starts out with Maria going on an epic fantasy journey with her trusty dog and she faces many dangers along the way that cause her pain. Then we learn that it is an allegory of her medical quest as she battles cancer. In most books, there is a happy ending so I was surprised that it ends on a hopeful note but not with her being done with cancer. Before reading the author’s note in the back where we learn her daughter is the one sick it is easy to tell that this is personal and from someone who is experiencing the journey. I liked the educational supplements in the back and just want to hug this mamma and her daughter for everything they have endured. This book is not for everyone because it is emotional but it could bring support to those who are going through this or help others to understand. I spoke with a family member who called before my tears were dry and she had a sibling die from cancer when she was a teen and absolutely would not have found comfort in this book. So, with that in mind, this book should be chosen if you know the person reading it can handle it.