A NEW BARKER IN THE HOUSE

The Barker family (Meet the Barkers: Morgan and Moffat Go to School, 2001) is back, and they’re adopting a child. Adoptee Marcos is not an infant—he’s already three years old, and siblings Moffat and Morgan are shocked to discover that he speaks only Spanish. The whole family has a lot to learn as the twins somewhat too enthusiastically attempt to show Marcos their favorite toys and food and ask if they can take him to school for show-and-tell. When Marcos is finally asked what he wants to do, it turns out he simply wants to learn some English words and teach his new family some Spanish. The cheerful, clear illustrations, done in transparent acrylic on handmade watercolor paper, convey the warmth of the happy, supportive Barker family and depict items in the family’s newfound Spanish vocabulary. While the children’s adjustment to the adoption may be a bit unrealistically smooth, their feelings of excitement will be familiar and contagious to readers. A brief glossary of Spanish words is included in the front matter. Focusing more on the challenges of meeting someone who speaks a different language than on adjusting to a new sibling, this latest episode in the Barkers’ adventures is a welcome, timely addition to the series. (Picture book. 4-8)