A local fiesta introduces young Alicia to aguas frescas, fruit drinks her mother remembers fondly from her own childhood. Alicia and her mother experiment making the drinks at home. They invite Alicia’s teammates to sample the drinks after Alicia's soccer practice. The aguas frescas are a great success, and thereafter become ‘Alicia’s Fruity Drinks’, a post-game tradition. The story has a welcomed theme about healthy diet and exercise. The artwork is as refreshing and colorful as pitchers of aguas frescas themselves. When Alicia first tries the drink, her face radiates delight. The antics of the family dog provide additional humor and action. Both Spanish and English text are well laid out on the page, integrating storyline, font and illustrations. This charming book celebrates community, healthful lifestyle and cultural cross currents. Ideally suited for an outreach program, summer story time or read aloud. Recommended for school and public libraries.

Reviewed by Judith Falzon, Branch Manager, St. Joseph County Public Library, South Bend, IN