Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. ( )

This is a great story that has several messages. The story itself is about a young boy named Luis whose big brother Nico joins the armed forces and leaves home. Luis does not want his brother to leave and when he asks him why he is leaving, he tells him it is to see the world. Luis thinks if he paints the world on the wall in the alley, his brother will not have to leave. That does not work and Nico leaves the next morning. He sends messages home on the phone he gave his mother before he left. Mami tells Luis that sometimes people do not come home. Luis continues to paint and even Mami and the neighbours get in on the action. A beautiful mural is painted and eventually Nico comes home. Working together, using your gifts and talents along with the fear and acceptance of a family member or friend in the armed forces are all touched upon in the book. The illustrations are excellent.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. ( )