One word came to me over and over while reading Gathering Stardust by Victor Villasenor. That word was “Charming”. The story, the characters, the setting are simply and overwhelmingly, charming.
The style of the book itself is most friendly, it invites each reader in with happy quotes and then lets them down easily with short descriptions of the team that put it together.
This is a book meant for children, I suppose, but it’s simple, profound message should not be ignored by the adult reader. More to the point, it is a book that should be read to children by adults. If so, it will become a catalyst, bringing reader and listener closer through simple, immersive settings, themes and characters.
But the story is not the only jewel to be found here. The illustrations by Jack Wiens are compelling guides to the tale. They are generous and full of color, motion and emotion. The eye immediately goes to them upon the turn of every page, a feast of delight and, dare I say it again, charm.
The author’s Mamagrande is the mystical star of the show, connecting all facets of life, home, heaven and earth for the young Victor. The cynic will no doubt recoil from the cascade of joy experienced by the two main characters as they navigate through barrio life in old Oceanside California during the nineteen thirties. If so, this book should remind the cynic that there is more than one way to see the world.
As for me, I loved it all. It is a joyous account of life, nature, relationships and even death tied together by simple, honest faith.