Just as warm and upbeat as How Tía Lola Came to (Visit) Stay (2001), the second book about Miguel and Juanita's aunt, who comes from the Dominican Republic to live with the kids' family in Vermont, is written in the same lively, playful style. Language is a central focus as Tía Lola volunteers to teach Spanish in the local elementary school. The story builds to a tense climax when her visa is about to expire, and the whole town rallies for her to stay. Readers will enjoy both the messages and the humor in Tía's wry, wise sayings.

In this sequel to How Tia Lola Came to (Visit) Stay (2001), the luminous Tia Lola reluctantly accepts an invitation to teach Spanish as a volunteer at her nephew and niece's elementary school. One year has passed since Tia Lola arrived in Vermont from the Caribbean. Miguel is in fifth grade, and he wants nothing but to start middle school. Juanita is in third grade and has her own troubles. Will they be happy having their own inimitable aunt teaching at their school? Using the charming voice of a third-person narrator and heading—and spicing up—each chapter with popular Spanish sayings, Alvarez creates a humorous and joyful story that can be read independently of the first Tia Lola story but that will leave readers eager for more of them. Within the tale, the author subtly touches on subjects that are relevant to the Latino population, such as immigration and bilingualism. An enjoyable read, not only for the amusing methods that Tia Lola uses to teach Spanish but for the sense of community and tolerance that breathes through her tale. (Fiction. 8-12)

Gr 3-6 This sequel to How T&7;a Lola Came to Visit/Stay (Knopf, 2001) continues the story of the Guzman family: 8-year-old Juanita, 10-year-old Miguel, and irrepressible T&7;a Lola. The new school year has begun and the children's aunt has been invited to teach Spanish a few days a week, a prospect that first alarms her since she never finished school when she was growing up in the Dominican Republic. But the woman is a born teacher, full of life, enthusiasm, and a wise saying for every situation. Lola quickly finds herself a favorite at school, charming all with her stories and personality, organizing parties and treasure hunts, and involving everyone in their small Vermont town in her plans. Along the way, she also helps Miguel and Juanita adjust to their parents' divorce, the separation from their father, who lives in New York City, and a possible new stepmother. When the residents of the town learn that Lola's immigration status is in jeopardy, they rally behind her to convince the judge the entire town needs their "T&7;a." Each chapter begins with one of Lola's maxims to set the stage, and Spanish words and phrases are clearly used throughout. A welcome return for a wonderful character whose heart encompasses the whole world. Terrie Dorio, Santa Monica Public Library, CA

In this warm-hearted sequel to How Tma Lola Came to Visit Stay, Miguel and Juanita are adjusting to life in small-town Vermont without their father. Meanwhile, the principal asks Tma Lola to teach Spanish at school. With easy-to-understand Spanish phrases sprinkled throughout the text and Dominican adages heading each chapter, Alvarez invites everybody into this welcoming family and community.