Has this picture been "tweaked"? The highlight on the girl's face seems very bright compared to the rest of the shot. Almost like a spotlight. Have you looked at this photo in B&W? I think it would possibly have more impact than the dulled colours.
Good capture though.
Did she find her Mum?
I agree. I love the expression on the kid's face, but the 'spotlight' effect is a bit distracting. I look at this and envision two options: 1) What about a very tight crop on just the kid? 2) How about a tighter vertical crop so that you end up with almost a panoramic style shot? That would greatly emphasize that "searching" feel.
I also like the idea of a b&w version. I think that would be great. Then again I've really been in a b&w mood lately.