EDWIDGE Danticat’s enchanting new children’s book, Watch Out for the Falling Iguanas (Akashic, US$16.95), is brought vividly to life by illustrator Rachel Moss, whose use of bright, tropical colours perfectly captures the story’s vibrant setting and whimsical tone.

This delightful tale explores a curious real-life phenomenon — falling iguanas — in a way that is both engaging and informative. Like the best entries in the genre of children’s literature that answer the big “why” questions (Why is there night? Why does the moon change shape?), Danticat’s story invites young readers to wonder, imagine, and learn.

But the question posed here is uniquely intriguing: Why do iguanas fall from trees on certain days? While rooted in science, the book is far from a textbook. Instead, it’s a playful, imaginative story featuring characters as vivid as Moss’s lush illustrations. Moss captures the Miami setting with a rich palette of greens, yellows, and blues, evoking swaying palm trees, blooming tropical flora, and the warm energy of South Florida.

The story begins on an overcast morning, as young Leila heads off to school. Her grandmother offers a curious warning: “Watch out for falling iguanas.” Leila thinks she must have misheard — perhaps something about chickens crossing the road or peacocks on the sidewalk? But her confusion turns to amazement as, on her walk to school, iguanas begin dropping from the trees. Why is this happening?

What follows is a charming, gently suspenseful tale that offers a satisfying explanation—one grounded in science but delivered with a touch of magic. At just 30 pages, with sparse, lyrical prose, the book is ideal for a single sitting, yet leaves a lasting impression.

Watch Out for the Falling Iguanas belongs to that special category of children’s books that illuminate the world in unexpected ways, offering answers to questions readers didn’t even know they had. It’s a delightful, beautifully illustrated read that both entertains and informs — an excellent addition to any young reader’s bookshelf.