Best friends Marisol and Magdalena are looking forward to eighth grade in Brooklyn -- that is, until Marisol's mother decides that her daughter should spend the year with her abuela in Panama. Fortunately eighth graders in Panama turn out to be every bit as friendly as their New York counterparts, and with their help -- and the help of her generous grandmother -- Marisol learns much about her mother's homeland and her own Panamanian heritage. Ages 9-12.  (PNM14, $5.99)