Lia & Luis

Piecing together a jigsaw puzzle helps twins Lia and Luis work on spatial skills while solving a mystery. In their second Storytelling Math outing, the excited young Brazilian Americans (who, Crespo mentions in an author's note, speak in a Sao Paulo accent) receive a puzzle from their Vovo (grandmother) with a secret message and immediately notice that some pieces have one or two straight sides. It's a clue! Sorting ensues, as well as matching contours and turning pieces until each one fits. Meanwhile, Mamae is urging them to hurry ( Rapido! ) because they have to leave soon. Where to? The finished puzzle turns out to be a picture of Vovo saying Ate Ja! ( See you soon! )...which solves the mystery just in time for a scramble to the airport and a joyful greeting: Que saudade! We missed you too, Vovo! It's a brief but age-appropriate introduction to spatial skills that will appeal to kids. The olive-skinned twins are visibly lighter than their Mamae and Vovo-realistic variations in hue-in the simple, sunny art. The final pieces are laid down with a list of Portuguese expressions used in the narrative and an educator's explanation of the math related skills exercised here that features suggestions for enhancement activities. Intellectual lessons and a glimpse at Brazilian American culture fit seamlessly together. -Kirkus Reviews