Finding Home in the Verses of Life: A Look at Something Like Home by Laura Rodríguez Colón
There’s something magical about stories told in verse; they can encapsulate profound emotions in a few carefully chosen words. When I stumbled upon Something Like Home by Laura Rodríguez Colón, I was instantly drawn in—not just by the poetic form, but by the promise of a journey through resilience, kinship, and the power of love. As someone who treasures stories about complex familial dynamics, I found myself eagerly opening this insightful narrative about a girl navigating the uncertainties of life with grace and heart.
A Journey Through Chaos and Care
At the heart of Something Like Home is Laura, a young girl who embodies both vulnerability and fierce determination. Staying with her aunt, Titi Silvia, while her parents grapple with addiction in rehab, Laura’s life is anything but stable. You can feel her turmoil through Colón’s striking verse as she battles guilt for calling 911, believing she triggered the upheaval in her family. This internal struggle beautifully sets the stage for a myriad of themes: the impact of addiction, the complexities of kinship care, and the comforting presence of an unexpected friend—a stray dog named Sparrow.
The introduction of Sparrow as a therapy dog-in-training adds a delightful layer to the story. Laura’s companionship with him is heartwarming, serving as a beacon of hope amidst her challenges. Their relationship also ignites her resolve to find a way to connect with her parents, showing how love—for both family and pets—can inspire courage in the face of adversity.
Poetic Insights and Narrative Flow
Colón’s writing style shines through evocative imagery and heartfelt emotion, even when it occasionally skims into poetic bird imagery that didn’t resonate with my own preferences. That said, this aspect likely reflects a broader creative choice aimed at symbolizing freedom and flight—a contrast to Laura’s feelings of being grounded by her circumstances. The verses flow seamlessly, capturing Laura’s gradual adaptation to her new life at Riverview Elementary, illustrating both her struggles and small victories.
I particularly loved the kind librarian, Mrs. Elsa, who introduces Laura to graphic novels. This part of the story resonated deeply with me, as it shows the power of empathetic adults in a child’s life, and how books can be a lifeline to those feeling lost.
Reflections on Growth and Connection
As I read through Something Like Home, I couldn’t help but reflect on how this book fills a much-needed gap in children’s literature. Kinship care is an important and increasingly relevant topic, and Colón explores it with sensitivity and nuance. The inclusion of the Court Appointed Special Advocate who supports Laura adds another layer of realism, showing readers that help can come from unexpected places.
While there are a few poetic elements that might not resonate with every reader, like the bird motifs my students seem to overlook, the central story remains compelling. The overall tale has the potential to captivate not just young readers but adults, educators, and anyone interested in stories that explore family dynamics in unconventional settings.
Who Will Love This Book
I wholeheartedly recommend Something Like Home to middle-grade readers and anyone seeking a heartfelt story about family, resilience, and the healing power of companionship. This book is a testament to the idea that home can take many forms, shaped by love and support, whether they come from family, friends, or even a furry companion.
In a world that often feels chaotic, Laura’s journey serves as a reminder that finding one’s place in it can lead to unexpected joys and connections. For me, fortifying my shelf with such poignant stories reminds me of the beauty found in life’s unpredictability—and how, sometimes, a dog can be the key to finding home.