Virginia Haviland

Last Updated on May 6, 2015, by eNotes Editorial. Word Count: 144

There is a rare closeness to life in [… and Now Miguel,] this poetic telling by the boy Miguel of his yearning to grow up, to join the men of his family taking sheep for summer pasturing into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Beauty, simple dignity, and humor are in the boyish words that share his innermost plans and secrets and describe the progression of life in the flock. Miguel is twelve and he understands sheep with unique insight…. A young reader will not forget Miguel's searching spirit and the challenge, the fun and the fervor of his twelfth year, concluded by his realization of a great moment on the mountain. The Taos country, the members of his large family, and the way of the sheep-raisers are well shown…. (p. 456)