I'm a fan of Cisneros, and she really does use some beautiful language here. Some of the natural objects shown have anthropomorphic traits, but the images are fresh. I also like the concept behind the book, the larger idea that we can become orphans when we experience parental loss. I also give her kudos for involving her community in this work and letting Ester Hernandez do some beautiful drawings. In the end, though, this "fable for adults," left me wanting for more depth. I wanted to be pulled in to the story, understanding the hurting and healing process with greater clarity. Have You seen Marie? is tender story of both words and illustrations told in fewer than 100 pages. It is a story that deals with the loss of a loved one, the grief and sometimes even paralysis that can follow, and finally the beginning of the critical healing process, so important to one's future well-being. Losing a mother is painful regardless of our age at the time of loss. Author Sandra Cisneros, was 53 years-old when her mother died. After her passing Sandra hid herself from the world while mourning her loss. When Sandra's friend, Roz decides to visit her, traveling by car, from Washington State to San Antonio, Texas she brings her cat Marie along on the trip. Like most cats Marie is not thrilled with the ride, and once they arrive in San Antonio, Marie manages to escape.A search for Marie by Roz and Sandra begins by canvassing of the neighborhood where Sandra lives. While doing this, they see many of Marie's neighbors going about their normal everyday activities: kids playing, people working in their gardens, a mom jogging while pushing her baby in a stroller. With each person they meet the question, have you seen my cat Marie is asked. As Sandra talks to the many interesting people who live close by, she in turn begins to heal from the loss of her mother. Cisneros’s story and Ester Hernandez’s illustrations show readers that grief is a normal reaction to death. Moving beyond the grief is harder, but a necessary part of the process. I thought the book was really well done, the illustrations are great as well. This book would make a great gift for someone you know who is dealing with the loss of a loved one.
What do You think about ¿Has Visto A María? (2012)?
Should be read by anyone dealing with the death of a mother.
—badwolf913
Good, but disappointing in comparison to her other works.
—radi4nce
