WHY DO WE CRY? by Fran Pintadera. Toronto, Ontario: Kids Can Press, 2020. 32p. ISBN 978-1525304774 hc. $16.99      Gr. K-3     E PIC

Mario asks his mother why we cry, and gets many answers that depend on emotions and situations.  She talks about sadness, anger, feeling alone, and finally, explains tears of happiness.  Mario’s mom also tells him that tears speak a language of their own that is universally understood.  Before reading aloud, parents and teachers may want to jump to the back of the book to explore the science of tears.  Seven simple questions about the anatomy and chemistry of tears are will help field questions that come up during reading.  Gentle words and thoughtful illustrations emphasize the skills of parenting and the special relationship between mother and son. 

Lynette Suckow, Superiorland Preview Center, Marquette, MI