Al Fin En Casa / Home at Last

Ana Patino and her family have just moved to the United States from Mexico. Through the window of their apartment Ana sees farm fields and big round trees quite a difference from their village in Mexico. Ana adjusts to her new surroundings quickly, but her mother has a more difficult time. Mama misses her family in Mexico. She also cannot speak English, which makes her daily routine difficult. When one of Ana's brothers falls ill, Mama tries to get help, but no one can understand her. She finally realizes it is time to make a change, and Ana is there to lift her mother's spirits and cheer her on. Home at Last captures the close bond between a girl and her mother while giving a realistic picture of the dislocation new immigrants often experience. All readers will be touched by this family who finds the true meaning of home.