A Heartfelt Goodbye: A Review of Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away
When I first picked up Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away by Meg Medina, I was drawn not only by the vibrant cover but also by the whisper of nostalgia it promised. As someone who’s navigated the bittersweet tides of friendship and change, I knew this tale would resonate deeply. Medina, a Newbery Medalist and celebrated author, crafts a poignant narrative that speaks to anyone who has loved and lost—even if it’s just the laughter of a childhood friend.
At the heart of this beautifully illustrated picture book are two inseparable friends, Evelyn and Daniela, who share every adventure from their parallel urban worlds. The narrative flows as Daniela’s best friend, Evelyn, prepares to move away, and the impending separation lingers poignantly over their last day together. Medina captures the essence of childhood friendship—laughter, play, and the promise of always being “número uno”—while also addressing the inevitability of change and the heartache that often accompanies it.
Medina’s writing is infused with warmth and authenticity, elegantly balancing moments of joy with the somber backdrop of goodbye. I was particularly struck by the way she paints their urban neighborhood, filled with the vibrant details of their twin apartments and communal routines. Sonia Sánchez’s illustrations enhance the narrative beautifully. The colors leap off the pages, reflecting the energy and vitality of Daniela and Evelyn’s world, making the emotions even more palpable.
One of my favorite passages is when Daniela imagines the moving truck as a giant monster—a metaphor for her feelings of loss and apprehension. This clever personification invites readers to connect emotionally, reminding us all of the imaginative ways children process their emotions. The heartfelt promise of “we’ll always keep in touch” is a reminder of not just the resilience of friendships, but the fulfillment they provide, even when distance separates us.
As I read, I found myself nodding along to the experiences portrayed. It’s not just a story about two girls; it’s a testament to every child’s experience of change—school transitions, moving cities, or simply the complexities of growing up. This book serves as both a gentle introduction to the themes of loss and the steadfastness of friendship for young readers, making it a perfect read-aloud for parents looking to foster discussions in their families.
Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away is more than just a children’s story; it holds a mirror to our own experiences with friendship, love, and resilience. I highly recommend it to anyone sharing their life with little ones, educators wanting to touch on themes of connection and separation, or anyone who appreciates beautifully crafted tales that tug at the heartstrings.
In a world that often focuses on how to move forward, Medina gracefully reminds us of the bittersweet beauty of farewells and the lasting threads of friendship that tie us together, no matter the distance. This book remains a treasure, one that I know will resonate for me—and for generations of readers to come.