October Reviews of the Latest Spanish-Language Titles for Children: Fiction, Nonfiction, and Bilingual Titles
Chaired by Freda Mosquera, Broward County Library, FL October 15, 2010BERNIER-GRAND, Carmen T. Sonia Sotomayor: Jueza de la corte Suprema. illus. by Thomas Gonzalez. 48p. bibliog. chron. glossary. notes. CIP. Marshall Cavendish. 2010. RTE $17.99. ISBN 978-0-7614-5801-2. LC 2009048288.
Gr 3-6-Through graceful, short vignettes written in free verse, Bernier-Grand introduces readers to the first Hispanic judge and third woman to serve on the Supreme Court. The author describes Sotomayor’s childhood in the Bronx, difficulties learning to read English, experiences in Ivy League schools, and swearing-in ceremony to serve on the highest court in the land. Gonzalez’s colored-pencil drawings enhance the narrative. Readers will be attracted by some of the details of Sotomayor’s life. For example, the woman loves baseball and was instrumental in ending the labor disputes between baseball owners and players in the 1995 baseball strike. The last pages of the book include a prose chronology of the justice’s life. The glossary includes words used more commonly by Puerto Rican New Yorkers (Nuyoricans). An enjoyable read and a great addition.–Angélica Sauceda, Anaheim Public Library, CA
BROWN, Monica. Side by Side/Lado a lado: The Story of Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez/La historia de Dolores Huerta y César Chávez. tr. by Carolina Valencia. illus. by Joe Cepeda. unpaged. CIP. HarperCollins/Rayo. 2010. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-06-122781-3. LC 2008036249.
Gr 2-5–How many children knew that behind the 1960s National Grape Boycott was a woman named Dolores Huerta, alongside famous activist Cesar Chavez? Not only did Huerta coin the United Farm Workers’ mantra, “Sí, se puede! Yes, we can!” but she also worked tirelessly with Chavez to create change for countless migrant farmworkers. Brown describes the widely different upbringings for Huerta and Chavez. As soon as they met, however, it was evident that together they were an unstoppable force. For 30 years, their momentum carried them through many important triumphs in the fight for social justice. The English and Spanish texts on each page are complemented by Cepeda’s expressive, painterly illustrations done in a saturated color palette. While the vocabulary, pictures, and length of the story lend themselves to reading aloud to younger audiences, the subject matter is suited to older audiences as well. This piece of literature is a great way to introduce young people to topics such as civil rights, Cesar Chavez Day, immigration, and, of course, International Women’s Day, to celebrate the life and achievements of a community activist and feminist who continues to play an active role within the Latino communities. A must-purchase for schools and libraries.–S hannon Dye, Peoria Public Library, AZ
COLATO LAÍNEZ, René. From North to South/Del norte al sur. illus. by Joe Cepeda. 32p. Children’s Book Press. 2010. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-0-89239-231-5. LC number unavailable.
Gr 1-3–Colato Laínez, a teacher, draws upon his own and his students’ immigrant stories to tell this moving story. José arrives home from school one day to find that his mother has been deported back to Mexico for having illegally entered the United States. José and his father, who has gained residency status, plan a trip to see Mamá. While spending the day in Tijuana at her shelter, they decorate her room with photographs to comfort her as she awaits word from her attorney about her reentry into the country. As the day ends, José falls asleep in his mother’s lap while telling her one last story before they leave to await her return. The realistic, earth-toned, oil-on-canvas paintings and Spanish-English bilingual text appropriately capture a child’s perspective on the not-so-pretty impact of immigration policies. A timely and important addition for schools and public libraries.–Rhonda Jeffers, Coweta Public Library System, Newnan, GA
DEEDY, Carmen Agra. 14 Vacas para América. tr. by Cristina de la Torre. illus. by Thomas Gonzalez. unpaged. Peachtree. 2010. Tr $17.95. ISBN 978-1-56145-550-8; pap. $8.95. ISBN 978-1-56145-555-3. LC number unavailable.
Gr 2-5– What do a tribe in Africa, 14 cows, and the United States have in common? This book conveys the answer in a most wonderful way. When Kimeli returns to Kenya from the U.S. and metaphorically tells his people the story of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the Maasai want to help the big nation and freely give what is of supreme value to them. For the Maasai, “ la vaca es vida, ” the cow is life. “Without the herd, the tribe would die of hunger.” The story’s rhythm and pace are unhurried, like an oral tale told in the voice of a master storyteller. Each element is introduced at the appropriate time: love, joy, sadness, disbelief, and ultimate generosity. The illustrations are done in vibrant colors but are never overwhelming. The individual faces are not sharply delineated, but the emotion is revealed in the people as a whole. This beautiful story will help youngsters see how truly connected we are as a human race. It is recommended for classes when trying to develop character as well as to teach children about empathy and compassion. There is a closing note by Kimeli Naiyomah, the real Kimeli of the story.–Verónica Corral, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, NC
DOMINGUEZ, Celia, et al. 365 adivinanzas. illus. by Margarita Menéndez. 173p. (Colección Grande Libros). index. Susaeta. 2010. Tr $29.95. ISBN 978-8-43-059427-6. LC number unavailable.
K-Gr 5 –This extensive collection of riddles, one for each day of the year, features animals, famous characters, flowers, family, food, drinks, and more. Menéndez’s funny and tender cartoons combine straight and curved lines with a palette that goes from faint yellow to rich orange. The selections are divided into categories, and the index will help readers to locate preferred topics and words. Answers appear at the back of the book. A good resource for family storytimes and to motivate reluctant readers.– Narda McCarthy, Library Consultant, Broward County Library, FL
FERRÁNDIZ, Elena. La media naranja. illus. by author. unpaged. Thule. 2010. BD $21.95. ISBN 978-84-92595-00-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 2-5– This compact book, written in sophisticated Spanish verse, imitates the color and shape of the main character, one half of an orange. Lonely Tina travels far and wide looking for wholeness. She pulls all kinds of tricks and finally snares reluctant Clemen. Once paired, Tina becomes “ clementina, ” Spanish for clementine, and thus achieves happiness. But there is no happy ending for Clemen, who was literally taken hostage and squeezed into compliance. While the book’s clever exterior will surely appeal to young readers, its message could prove disturbing to parents and educators. Should girls be learning that they are but half a person without a male partner? Should boys be warned early about those deceiving damsels out to hook them? Fortunately, school-age readers attracted to picture books will most likely read it on a more literal level. A beautifully packaged little book with a juicy twist. –Gisela Norat, Agnes Scott College, Decatur, GA
GARCÍA ESPERÓN, María. Copo de Algodón. illus. by Marcos Almada Rivero. 124p. Ediciones el Naranjo. 2010. pap. $15.95. ISBN 978-607-7661-17-7. LC number unavailable.
Gr 6-8 –This is the captivating story of the daughter of Princess Tacuba and Emperor Montezuma Xocoyotzin, born in the era of the Fifth Sun. Through her unique perspective, readers learn of familiar occurrences during the Aztec Empire such as wars, human sacrifices, the arrival of Hernán Cortés, and her marriage. Copo de Algodón’s observations are genuine, much in the way that a girl today might view the world around her. However, she is not a typical fairy-tale princess waiting to be rescued by her prince. She is a warrior and a symbol of an empire that built Mexico. Though this is a work of fiction, the story was inspired by the life of Princess Tecuixpo Ixtlaxóchitl (c. 1507-1550), also known as Isabel Moctezuma. Almada Rivero’s pen illustrations depict the young woman’s emotions as she experiences major and often frightening life events, as well as details that reveal her Aztec world. Information available about the Aztec empire is often limited in perspective to its mighty emperors and gods. Reading this novel will give children the rare opportunity to embrace an important time in Mexican history told from the viewpoint of its women and children.– Jessica McClinton López, King County Library System, Auburn WA
GÓMEZ CERDÁ, Alfredo. Mari Pepa y el club de los pirados. illus. by Miguel Navia. 116p. Macmillan Iberia. 2010. Tr $13.95. ISBN 978-8-47-942398-8. LC number unavailable.
Gr 4-6–Born in China, Mari Pepa was adopted by a Spanish couple when she was just a few months old. Although loved and an important member of her family, the 10-year-old is not always sure where she belongs, so she decides to find people who know who they really are. Only one person responds to the sign she posts at school: Juanan, a boy who was born in Ethiopia, was adopted by a Spanish couple as a baby. On their first encounter at the plaza of the Árbol Solitario, they find a suitcase hidden in the bushes. As the story evolves, Gómez Cerdá includes elements of suspense and adventure that make this novel entertaining and intriguing. Mari Pepa and Juanan meet Victor, the owner of the suitcase, an orphan who is running away from Dani Ogro, an infamous TV anchor. Dani Ogro kidnaps the children to exploit their inflated stories and raise his show’s ratings. While in captivity, Mari Pepa solves her identity crisis and comes to value her parents’ unconditional love. Navia’s highly detailed black-and-white drawings enhance the mystery elements in the story, giving it realistic appeal. An excellent selection to spark discussions on mixed-race families and adoption.–Patricia Bashir, Library Consultant, Brentwood, TN
KRINGS, Antoon. Úrsula Libélula. tr. from French by David Cáceres González. illus. by author. unpaged. (Bichitos Curiosos Series). Blume. 2010. Tr $5.95. ISBN 978-84-9801-407-5. LC number unavailable.
PreS-Gr 2– Úrsula, a dragonfly, lives alone in a beautiful small house on a lily pad in the middle of the pond. She doesn’t like being disturbed, but with the arrival of good weather, neighbors come to visit: a bumblebee, a beetle, and a love-struck and extremely vocal frog. When he finds a mate and starts to grow a prolific and equally loud family, Úrsula decides to move to another pond. However, she soon discovers that she misses the hubbub and her noisy friends. Children will enjoy seeing Úrsula with pink curlers in her hair and in pink slippers, the bumblebee stretched out, and the frog singing. The soft pastel illustrations with rounded edges reflect the humorous story. The book’s artistic layout and large fonts make the story a good choice for most collections.–Diana Borrego Martinez, formerly at San José Public Library, CA
RENERT, Gerry. Nathan Saves Summer/Nathan rescata el verano. illus. by Carrie Anne Bradshaw. 32p. glossary. CIP. Raven Tree. 2010. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-1-934960-74-5; pap. $7.95. ISBN 978-1-934960-75-2. LC 2009931225.
PreS-Gr 3–N athan, a large hippopotamus, dreams of being a lifeguard. Every summer, animals from all around gather at a small pond for their vacations. He proves to them that he has the necessary skills, but they discourage him, saying that he is just too large for the job. When he mistakenly “rescues” a tiger cub and inadvertently causes the pond to go dry, the animals disperse in disgust. They ultimately find a lagoon downstream and hail Nathan as the hero for saving the summer. This resolution makes very little sense and leaves readers feeling as empty as the pond. The Spanish translation is well done and stays true to the English version. The watercolor illustrations are detailed, colorful, and add to the sense of place, but the story ultimately doesn’t hold water.– Roberto Zapata, San Antonio Public Library, TX
RUIZ, Celia, adapt. Léeme un cuento. illus. by Pilar Campos. unpaged. index. Susaeta. 2010. Tr $21.95. ISBN 978-8-43-056696-9. LC number unavailable.
PreS-Gr 3– This is a collection of 16 beloved stories includes “Little Red Riding Hood,” “The Ugly Duckling,” and “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” and popular Spanish stories such as “ La ratita presumida” and “ Garbancito .” It also includes a Bulgarian story. Each selection is introduced with a diagram that indicates the reading time, appropriate age level, location, characters, and moral values depicted. For instance, the introductory note to Perrault’s “ Pulgarcito ” indicates that the reading time is 10 minutes, the story is appropriate for children as young as four, and the values emphasized are intelligence and brotherhood. Stories also include highlighted sidebars suggesting different voice inflections needed to give the tale momentum. With abundant colorful and imaginative illustrations from beginning to end, this gorgeous anthology comes with an eye-catching, padded cover engraved with vivid colors and figures. This volume offers interesting tools to parents, librarians, and teachers to improve their storytelling techniques.– Narda McCarthy, Broward County Library, FL
SWEET, J. H. Cinabrio y la Isla de las Sombras. Bk. 7. tr. by Iolanda Rabascall. illus. by Holly Sierra. 117p. (Fairy Chronicles Series). Pirueta. 2010. Tr $11.95. ISBN 978-84-92691-43-2. LC number unavailable.
Gr 3-5–In this book in the popular series, Helen, a 10-year-old girl, has discovered that she was born a fairy with the spirit of a nocturnal butterfly. As a fairy, her name is Cinabrio. Her ballet teacher, Madame Pinzón, is also a fairy and Cinabrio’s leader. On a supposed trip to a ballet performance, Madame Pinzón leads the fairy girls to the Island of the Shadows to solve a mystery. Once there, shadow makers create shadows for every human child. However, some were stolen and the children who did not receive their shadows are in danger. It’s up to Cinabrio and her fairy friends to discover what happened to the shadows. The delicately detailed pastel illustrations help to bring the fairy world to life. Children will enjoy entering this magical realm.–Ana Rodriguez, Tamarac Elementary School, FL
TAMARO, Susanna. El gran árbol. tr. by Guadalupe Ramírez Muñoz. 96p. Ediciones Urano. 2010. pap. $12.95. ISBN 978-84-96886-19-3. LC number unavailable.
Gr 1-3–A poignant tale about the interconnectedness of life. The protagonist is a majestic fir that has grown straight and tall in the middle of a clearing for more than 300 years. Due to its solitary, yet unique, position, the tree has had an unfettered view of happenings in the forest and surrounding areas throughout its life. Silently and without judgment, it has observed the comings and goings of humans, providing shelter, support, and inspiration for many. Finally, the day arrives when a group of men come to cut it down and transport it to its final destiny. A small squirrel residing high up in its branches travels with the tree and becomes its eyes, ears, and, ultimately, its savior. Tamaro’s elegant, yet simple prose allows readers to view the world through a new lens, and the underlying message will resonate with nature lovers.–Erica Kindrick, Yolo County Library, CA
VALVERDE, Mikel. Rita y el secreto de la piedra negra. illus. by author. 304p. maps. Macmillan Iberia. 2010. Tr $27.95. ISBN 978-84-7942-449-7. LC number unavailable.
Gr 5-8 –Inquisitive Rita travels to Libya for the summer to visit her uncle Daniel, an archaeologist working on a site in the Sahara. Upon her arrival at the dig, a student archaeologist is bitten by a snake. There is no antivenom serum. One group travels to the nearest hospital to get help. Rita and her uncle’s group travel to another city looking for a monk who has a black stone said to cure anything. Each group has three days to return to camp. In the course of their trip, Rita and Uncle Daniel face robbers, wild animals, mercenaries, and kidnapping as they follow the stone from Libya to Namibia. The strategically placed illustrations help to bring the text to life. There’s also a map that traces Rita and her uncle’s journey and a travel journal with Rita’s drawings and observations.– Ana Rodriguez, Tamarac Elementary School, FL
VOJTA, Pat Stemper. Mr. Groundhog Wants the Day Off/El señor Marmota quiere el día libre. illus. by Olga Levitskiy. 32p. glossary. CIP. Raven Tree. 2010. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-1-934960-77-6; pap. $9.95. ISBN 978-1-934960-78-3. LC 2009931227.
PreS-Gr 3– Tired of incurring public disdain if he sees his shadow, Mr. Groundhog attempts to persuade other woodland animals to fill in for him. Although they all respectfully decline, they outfit him with a vest, top hat, cane, and bow tie. He uses his new attire to prance about on Groundhog’s Day, dazzling the onlookers and inspiring all to dance. Levitskiy’s whimsical illustrations done acrylic, watercolor, and colored pencil truly enhance the story. However, a few minor issues distract from the overall quality of the work. The landscapes seem to imply late spring as opposed to the coldest days of winter. In colder climates, where Groundhog Day is typically celebrated, the land turtle would likely be hibernating. The fingers on Mr. Groundhog’s hands change from three to four fingers depending on the illustration. Still, these minor distractions shouldn’t detract from a story that will appeal to youn g readers.–Cristi Jenkins, Fort Vancouver Regional Library, WA
WERLIN, Nancy. Las reglas de supervivencia de Matt. tr. by Verónica D’Ornellas. 227p. Ediciones Obelisco. 2010. pap. $18.95. ISBN 978-84-9777-606-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 8-Up–Matt, 13, has learned over the years how to survive the ups and downs that life with his abusive mother brings. The oldest of three kids, he feels responsible for his younger sisters and does his best to take care of them while avoiding their mother’s wrath. During a trip to the store one day, he is amazed to see a stranger defend another child from an abusive parent. When this stranger suddenly begins dating their mom, life for the three siblings becomes safe, even happy–but only for a short time. After the relationship ends, their mother’s behavior grows even more erratic than before, prompting Matt to reach out to her ex and ask for his help. The story is written five years later in the form of a letter from Matt to his youngest sister, reminding her of the tough times they endured when she was too little to remember. The first-person narrative brings the story to life, and the short chapters keep the action going and help to sustain a sense of urgency. Werlin does an excellent job of portraying verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse and the terror it can produce.– Erica Kindrick, Yolo County Library, CA
WIRKALA, Rita. Tarsiana. 80p. All Bilingual. 2009. pap. $11.90. ISBN 978-0-9822887-2-6. LC number unavailable.
Gr 4-8 –A bilingual retelling of the Greek myth “Apolonious of Tyre.” Upon his hasty self-exile from Tyre, Apolonio arrives in Pentapolis as the only survivor of a shipwreck. There he meets and marries Princess Luciana. Shortly after the wedding, he discovers that King Antioch, his nemesis, is dead, so he and Luciana set sail for Tyre. During the difficult voyage, Luciana gives birth to a baby girl and apparently dies. Apolonio, overcome with grief, leaves his daughter in Tarsus in the care of a couple with a child of their own, naming the infant Tarsiana. The child grows up to much misfortune, but her adventures ultimately lead her to a reunion with her father and the discovery that her mother is alive. This story captures the adventures and magic of the ancient mythological world.– Ana Rodriguez, Tamarac Elementary School, FL
