LOVE, LIZZIE

In this reassuring offering, a young girl named Lizzie writes letters to her mom, who is serving in the military overseas. McElroy gets the child’s perspective just right, as Lizzie’s letters shift easily from serious—and sometimes philosophical—questions like, “How long does defending freedom take?” to run-of-the-mill reports: “Thomas grew again and we had to get him some more pants.” Throughout, Paterson’s lively illustrations reflect Lizzie’s daily routine with her father and brother, while a series of maps that Lizzie draws to show her mother exactly what she’s been up to and where she goes each day effectively portray a child’s need to make sense of an uncertain world. California senator Diane Feinstein provides the forward; backmatter includes tips for adults on how to help children cope with deployment separation. (Picture book. 5-9)