El bastón mágico. (The Magic Cane)

Reviewed by Luis Francisco Vargas, Phoenix P. L., Ocotillo Branch, AZ -- Críticas, 3/15/2008 9:01:00 AM

Arrarás, Maria Celeste.
illus. by Pablo Raimondi. U.S.: Scholastic en español: Scholastic. 2007. unpaged. ISBN 978-0-545-00532-6. pap. $5.99.

Gr 2-4–Famous Spanish-language television anchor Arrarás writes an action-packed magical tale of courage and friendship that will keep young readers hoping for a sequel. Monoco, the unapologetic and egoistical young son of the emperor, seals his fate when he tries to steal a mysterious wise old woman’s magic cane in a nearby forest. Karmelo, a poor and noble peasant boy and Monoco’s only friend, helps the woman get the magic cane back. Neither Monoco nor Karmelo understand the meaning of her remarks—which are actually a curse—until years later, when Monoco becomes an evil emperor and Karmelo’s daughter and two sons defeat him in a series of exciting and courageous acts. Arrarás’s neutral, straightforward Spanish makes the story accessible for young readers; and Raimondi’s realistic and enticing drawings reflect the story’s complex plot. Recommended for all school and public libraries.

Order this title