Luz Makes a Splash

Gr 2–4—It's the hottest summer in years, and water and power are in short supply. Local gardens are dying, and Top Cola is draining the local swimming hole, using the water to make its sugary soft drinks, so Luz once again becomes an environmental activist for her community. She and her friends are an engaging, likable group, and are not sanctimoniously dedicated to their cause: they grumble about turning off the air-conditioning and boycotting their favorite Top Cola drinks. Dávila smoothly integrates facts about water conservation with the story line, aided by appealing cartoon illustrations. Drawn with bold lines and in a simple palette of black and light blue, they reflect the do-it-yourself ethos of Luz's activism. Because this graphic novel is divided into short chapters, it will serve as a bridge book or an advanced easy reader for children new to longer chapter books. This is an entertaining and empowering read, and should inspire many children to find out how they can make a difference in their communities.—Lisa Goldstein, Brooklyn Public Library, NY