Hispanic Heritage Month
September 15 marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. The website http://hispanicheritagemonth.gov contains a wealth of information on a variety of topics surrounding the culture of Hispanic peoples, such as the following:
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries-Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico declared its independence on September 16, and Chile on September 18.
The term Hispanic, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, refers to Spanish-speaking people in the United States of any race. On the 2000 Census form, people of Spanish/Hispanic/Latino origin could identify themselves as Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, or "other Spanish/Hispanic/Latino." More than 35 million people identified themselves as Hispanic or Latino on the 2000 Census.
There are many other features of interest to help parents, teachers, and others interested in teaching/learning about Hispanic Heritage. The link to Spanish Loan Words http://www.infoplease.com/spot/spanishwords1.html was particularly interesting. We use so many of these words without being conscious of their origins. As summer comes to a close, we can welcome September with the last of the homegrown tomatoes (derived from the Spanish tomate, a corruption of the Nahuatl word tomatl.) and look forward to the last of the mosquitoes (the same in English and Spanish -- annoying in either language!); during September we can focus on all things Hispanic and revel in the richness of the heritage shared (or adopted) by so many people.
The following book reviews offer a variety of interesting aspects of Hispanic Heritage to share with young listeners; the listing also includes books to interest older readers as well. In addition there are a number of books related to Cinco de Mayo http://www.childrenslit.com/childrenslit/th_cincodemayo.html which may also be of interest.
Contributor: Sheilah Egan
Reviews
Confetti Girl
Diana López
Lina knows what she likes. She likes volleyball, science, socks, and Luís. What she does not like is how her best friend, Vanessa, now spends more time with Carlos than with her, how her dad would rather read books than have dinner with her, and, most of all, she does not like that her mom died. As all of the characters in this novel try to accept the new changes in their lives, one thing brings them all together, cascarones. Usually only prepared at Easter, Ms. Cantu has been channeling her stress by making these hollowed out eggshells filled with confetti year round. As Lina and her father try to navigate their life using dichos, Spanish proverbs, they discover that their differences do not have to drive them apart, and they can stop walking on eggshells. This book is set in Texas, and there is a delicious Spanish flavor that spices up this book and adds a hint of culture. Included in the book is a list of all the dichos, as well as instructions on how to make your own cascarones. 2009, Little Brown and Company/Hachette Book Group, $15.99. Ages 9 to 13. Reviewer: Renee Farrah Vess (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780316029551
ISBN: 9780316029551
Fiesta! A Celebration of Latino Festivals
Sherry Shahan
Illustrated by Paula Barragán
Each month of the year gets its own double page. On one side is the English name with a brief, poetic impression of an important celebration in a Latin American country during that month. On the other side, under the Spanish name, is a detailed description of the holiday for older readers. Most name the particular place; one is in Haiti. For example, January 17 is the day of St. Anthony, when children in Mexican villages bring their pets to church to be blessed. In March, for the corn planting ceremony, incense is lighted in the fields and the ground is sprinkled with brandy, while burning candles are set in the direction of the four winds. In October, many countries honor St. Francis of Assisi in different ways. Barragán uses cut papers enhanced digitally to illustrate events with a focus on the decorative qualities like the swirls of water, the delicately designed blanket of flowers on mountainsides, the patterns of green leaves on branches, etc. Some of the people are shown in pure black silhouette so as not to distract from the main events. The endpapers, where each month is depicted by a single figure, offer a fine introduction to the fiestas inside. There is a pronunciation guide along with four pages of additional notes about the months and their festivals. 2009, August House, $16.95. Ages 4 to 9. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780874838619
ISBN: 0874838614
Gracias
Pat Mora
Illustrated by John Parra
This bilingual text is translated from the Spanish into English. A little boy gives thanks for specific things and events in his life such as: a ladybug which lands on his finger and waves at the shore where he plays with his younger sister. When his kite string catches on a bee's nest, the text says: "For the bees that didn't sting me and turn me into a pincushion, thanks." He gives thanks for a book his friend shared, for worms that brought a fish to his line, and for his uncle's guitar music. The boy lives with his mother, father, little sister, and little brother. The colored pictures show people with large heads and are reminiscent of children's drawings. The Spanish text appears on the right hand page of a two page spread, with the English on the left. In the end, the author tells of small things for which she is thankful and encourages readers to share small pleasures with friends. "Keep the circle of giving thanks, growing." Without naming an implied deity, children are encouraged to give thanks. Children will enjoy the pictures of a happy family. Bilingual parents can read both texts and help children learn another language. 2009, Lee and Low Books, $17.95. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Carlee Hallman (Children's Literature).
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Pura Belpre Award, 2010 Honor Book Illustrator United States
ISBN: 9781600602580
ISBN: 1600602584
A Kid's Guide to Latino History
Valerie Petrillo
An invaluable reference, this book takes you through the history of Latinos and gives readers something to think about for the future. Give your children a history lesson while making capirotada, or Mexican bread pudding. Prepare for a celebration with cascarones, confetti-filled eggshells, and when your guests arrive, a game of lotería, Mexican Bingo, will help pass the time while reinforcing Spanish. When the "board" games are done, learn to dance the meringue and finish the evening off with a slice of tres leches cake and a batido, shake. This book is not about throwing a Latino inspired party; though it gives you tips; but learning about different cultures through crafts, cooking and quality time. Whether you are learning Spanish and the various cultures of the Hispanic world or are a Latino-American this book should be a cornerstone of your collection. The book gives enough insight into the Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Salvadoreños, Cubans, Guatemalans and countless other Hispanic cultures to make it a must addition to your children's library. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by trying a new recipe and reading poems by celebrated Latinos. 2009, Chicago Review Press, $14.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Mandy Cruz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781556527715
ISBN: 1556527713
The Last Summer of the Death Warriors
Francisco X. Stork
Pancho is determined to avenge his mentally challenged sister's death, so he regards his
time at St. Anthony's Orphanage as just a temporary home where he can perfect his plan. He does
not count on forming a relationship with D.Q., a brain cancer patient who is oddly confident that
he and Pancho are destined to become friends. Despite Pancho's resistance, D.Q. inspires him to
reexamine his ideas about what it means to live and die, introducing him to the noble concepts of
his Death Warrior Manifesto. Ever the optimist, D.Q. persuades Pancho to accompany him to
Albuquerque for a radical cancer treatment, which his overbearing and overwrought mother
insists he try even though their relationship is strained. In Albuquerque, Pancho meets the young
woman who has captured D.Q.'s heart with her kindness and depth, and Pancho begins to see that
choosing to live may be the bravest option yet. When he comes face to face with his sister's killer,
he learns significant things about her and about himself, too. Pancho is the most dynamic
character of the bunch, and the text presents a wide range of his thoughts and feelings, from his
initial venom toward his sister's killer, to his acceptance of D.Q.'s friendship, to his decision to
choose life. Although the denouement makes no promises about the boys' future, the lack of
resolution underscores the unconditional hope that Pancho feels when he embraces his role as a
Death Warrior. 2010, Arthur A. Levine/Scholastic, Ages 14 and up, $17.99. Reviewer: Michele C.
Hughes (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-545-15133-7
My Papá Diego and Me: Memories of My Father and His Art
Guadalupe Rivera Marín
Illustrated by Diego Rivera
Diego Rivera's magnificent portraits are resurrected in this tribute to the author's father. She tells anecdotes that correspond to the picture that her father painted offering insight to her life as the daughter of a revolutionary artist. Diego Rivera loved children she tells us in her introduction, and children are seen throughout the book--children the way he perceived them to be, children seen in the best light possible. He thought children should be cared for and educated the author tells us, and the portraits of children learning recurs, displaying his opinion. This unique look into the life of Diego Rivera is likely to be more attractive to the parent reading the book than the child listening. The artwork is breathtaking and inspiring, and the author gives loving and candid descriptions of the circumstances surrounding the portraits but neither is something a child could fully appreciate. A refreshing perspective of the life of Diego Rivera as seen through the innocent eyes of his daughter is a must for art aficionados everywhere. 2009, Children's Book Press, $17.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Mandy Cruz (Children's Literature).
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Americas Award for Children's and Young Adult Literature, 2008 Commended Title United States
Pura Belpre Award, 2008 Honor Book Illustration United States
ISBN: 9780892392285
ISBN: 0892392215
ISBN: 0892392282
ISBN: 9780892392216
Once Upon a Time: Traditional Latin American Tales
Rueben Martínez
Translated by David Unger
Illustrated by Raúl Colón
A collection of stories popular among Latin American children is sure to bring back memories as parents read them to their own children. We start with the story of the "Wedding Rooster." The rooster is on his way to his uncle's wedding when he spots a kernel of corn he cannot pass up. The corn soils his beak setting a chain of events into motion that will have children giggling at the interconnectedness of life. The next story is the "Tlacuache and the Coyote," in some parts of the world the tlacuache is known as an opossum or weasel. Weasel fits him well as he tricks the coyote more times than the coyote can count, even when the coyote has decided he will not fall for one more of the tlacuache's tricks, he does, actually, he jumps. We are also treated to "The Mother of the Jungle," a lesson about being good to mother earth; Martina the Cockroach and Pérez the Mouse, a love story; "The Flower of Lirolay," the story of a blind king and his three sons who each want to inherit the throne; "The King and the Riddle," a story of a clever girl that wins the king's heart; and finally, "Pedro Urdemales and the Giant," the story of a mischief maker who outwits a giant in feats of strength. All classic stories, it is appropriate that they are bound together in one book. 2010, HarperCollins, $19.99. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Mandy Cruz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780061468957
ISBN: 0061468959
The Poet Slave of Cuba: A Biography of Juan Francisco Manzano
Margarita Engle
Illustrated by Sean Qualls
The author tells us in an endnote that the story of Juan Manzano's (1797-1854) life had haunted her for many years before she realized that she would have to tell it in verse. This realization stuns the reader with the power of this unique poet's life. Written in spare, compelling verse, this book is a true gift to readers of poetry everywhere and a suitable tribute to the man who was called "The Poet Slave of Cuba." Juan Francisco Manzano was the son of a "pardo" (Negro) father and an African/Mulatto mother, but for most of his early life he was forced to live with the woman who owned them and to call her "mother." Because he had a brilliant mind and an acute sense of language he was able to memorize long passages he had heard in the presence of his mistress, who took pride in showing him off as an entertainment. After her death his life suffered great change. While he had been severely punished for even the smallest infractions as a young child, after his thirteenth year he became the victim of unimaginable torture at the hands of his owner. Manzano's story is heartrending; but, the power of his poetry gives us hope now as it did to those in the past who would gather to hear him read his verses aloud. He was able to pour all of his emotions into poetry that reached the hearts of many. Of course, he was censored by the government and even jailed for the possibilities his words might have influenced suspected slave uprisings (which did not occur). The author has brilliantly captured Manzano's voice and spirit in her own poems as she tells us the story of this amazing person. The author uses the voice of Manzano and various people from his world to tell us about the first half of a life that was, indeed, extraordinary. The haunting charcoal illustrations convey the plight of the slaves who endured lives of great misery. The back matter includes references, acknowledgements, historical notes, and some of Manzano's actual poetry. 2006, Henry Holt, $16.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature).
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Americas Award for Children's and Young Adult Literature, 2007 Winner United States
IRA Children's and Young Adult's Book Award, 2007 Winner Young Adult-Nonfiction United States
Paterson Prize for Books for Young People, 2007 Special Recognition United States
Pura Belpre Award, 2008 Winner Narrative United States
ISBN: 0805077065
ISBN: 9780805077063
A Reader's Guide to Gary Soto's Taking Sides
Jen Jones
Designed to enrich the reading and understanding of this 1991 coming-of-age novel, the reader's guide not only explores the life of this prolific Hispanic author but discusses the elements and themes used in the story. Set in southern California, the story describes the life of Lincoln Mendoza, a middle school student of Chicano heritage. Lincoln's family moves from his rough, inner city neighborhood to a more suburban, middle class one following a robbery at their home. The atmosphere at his new school is far less diverse and violent than his old school, creating the adjustment for Lincoln a challenge in cultures. On top of that, Lincoln's former school and his new school are basketball rivals with the suburban school the usual winner. Lincoln was a standout player at his old school but fails to perform as well on his new school's team. He is conflicted as well by loyalty to his former teammates especially in the upcoming championship between the two schools. His new coach does not seem to like him, but Lincoln soon learns there is more to that story. The reader's guide, though redundant and confusing at times, explains the various themes of loyalty, diversity, and conflict as they relate to teenagers as a whole and the adjustment of changing cultures. A lengthy discussion of Gary Soto's challenging journey as an Hispanic author is linked for the reader with the challenges facing Lincoln. A glossary, chronology of the author's works, and an index are included. The guide is especially helpful for classrooms that may be less diverse than others. 2010, Enslow Publishing, Ages 10 to 14, $31.93. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7660-3168-5
René Has Two Last Names
René Colato Laínez
Illustrations by Fabiola Graullera Ramírez
On the first day at his new school René noticed that his teacher left one of his last names off of his name tag, so he added it. An immigrant from El Salvador, René was confused by the practice of using only one of his last names in the United States. To René each last name represented a set of grandparents and it felt wrong to leave one set out. He compared using only one last name to having pizza without cheese. Worse, at recess the kids teased him for using two last names--one going so far as to say his name was longer than an anaconda. When he shared his concerns with his parents, his father comforted him by saying that his mother's last name is still in his heart. That night he dreamt that his mother faded away with his last name so René decided not to lose his second last name. For his family tree project René worked hard to find the right photos to portray his family. He presented his family tree to his class and demonstrated how both names are an equally important part of him. He concluded his presentation with his grandmother's music. While dancing, his classmates told him how "cool" it is to have two last names and his teacher assured René that he would not have to choose just one anymore. A moving story about one of the many issues faced by children from Latin America but told in a most charming way. This story inspires the understanding of the importance, in some families, of having two last names. 2009, Piñata Books, $15.95. Ages 7 to 12. Reviewer: Mandy Cruz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9781558855304
ISBN: 1558855300
Sandra Cisneros: Inspiring Latina Author
Karen Clemens Warrick
As part of the "Latino Biography Library" series, this book tells the story of author, Sandra Cisneros. Cisneros refers to herself as Chicana, specifically meaning: a female person of Mexican heritage born in the United States, who developed a political consciousness during the Civil Rights Movement. As Cisneros grew, she rapidly became aware of how different she was from other American children. Growing up in a barrio and blending two different cultures gave her a much different image of "home" than her classmates. Her first, and most famous, novel, The House on Mango Street, is very much a reflection on her life in her Chicago barrio and the people she came into contact with. After graduating from Loyola College and the University of Iowa Writer's Workshop, Cisneros knew she wanted to be a writer, but writing did not pay the bills, initially. Cisneros took numerous jobs over the years as a counselor and teacher. The success of The House on Mango Street, as well as her poetry and short story collections, finally allowed Cisneros the opportunity to write full time. She settled in San Antonio, Texas, where she still lives today. Cisneros continues to write and teach workshops, and is active in several foundations supporting the arts. Cisneros remains outspoken about political issues, particularly those involving the rights of women of color. The smooth tone and the use of excerpts and photos make this biography a pleasing read. Older students may be inspired to read Cisneros work and try some of her writing tips. 2010, Enslow Publishers, $31.93. Ages 12 to 16. Reviewer: Jody Little (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780766031623
ISBN: 0766031624
Sonia Sotomayor: Supreme Court Justice
Carmen T. Bernier-Grand
Illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez
"As American as Mango Pie." Such is the poetic phrase that begins the story of the U.S. Supreme Court's first Hispanic justice. Sotomayor's biography sometimes reads like a blend of a non-fiction novel and the poetry of intuition. Colorful illustrations sharply enhance the facts and feel of her life, from poor beginnings as a Nuyorican (person born in New York to Puerto Rican parents) to a culminating seat on the land's highest court. The artistry of this book uniquely intertwines with some very illuminating and factual material. More literal readers will appreciate the story after the story. Sotomayor's biography is retold in a totally separate section of the book, taking a much more factual (hence, less artistic) approach. If that is not enough, then very succinct readers will welcome the simple two page timeline at the end of the book. This book is a good choice for Women's History Month and Hispanic Heritage Month. Its various presentations should appeal to a wide variety of students. Includes Spanish glossary and notes. 2010, Marshall Cavendish, Ages 9 to 12, $17.99. Reviewer: David Adams (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7614-5795-4
Spanish Missions of New Mexico
Robin Lyon
This small, informative book opens with a True/False question, promising the answer to follow somewhere within the text, sending young readers on a treasure hunt for facts. Illustrations, photographs, short articles, and bursts of text easily lead the reader through the history of the Spanish presence in New Mexico. The first mission in this territory was built by Spanish priests in 1598. The Spanish had first come to New Mexico to search for legendary cities of gold. They did not find these cities, but the Spanish built missions where they forced the Native Americans to convert to Christianity and to live following the Spanish way of life. The Apache, the Navajo, and the Pueblo were the most prominent of these people. The Native Americans, especially the Pueblo, became resentful of the Spanish who arrested their priests and punished them for not obeying Spanish rules. In 1860, the Pueblos led a revolt which drove the Spanish from Santa Fe and out of the territory. However, the Spanish returned in 1692 and remained in power until they were threatened in the 1770's by the Comanche. This title from the "A True Booktrade," series describes the troubles between the Spanish and the Native Americans, showing the influence of both cultures on what became New Mexico while highlighting the role of the Spanish missions. Pronunciation guides, a glossary, and an index make this volume easy to use as a reference. 2010, Children's Press/Scholastic, $26.00 and $6.95. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Shirley Nelson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780531205792
ISBN: 0531205797
Tortuga in Trouble
Tortuga in Trouble
Illustrated by Ethan Long
Paul moves a traditional Red Riding Hood tale to the Southwest, sprinkling it with Spanish words and humor. Tortuga, a turtle, asks his friends Conejo, a rabbit, Culebra, a snake, and Iguana to help him lift onto his back the basket he is taking to his grandmother. His hungry friends decide to follow him. On his way, Tortuga meets Coyote, who likes what he sees in the basket and then races off to "an appointment." When Tortuga reaches his grandmother's house, Coyote has already disguised himself as grandmother there and shoves Tortuga into the closet where he has put her, then prepares the food from the basket. Luckily Tortuga's friends come to the rescue so they can share the supper. Long creates a minimal desert in yellows and oranges with a couple of cactus plants. His characters are also simply conceived with gouache and colored pencil. They are almost cartoons in their comic exaggeration, with very large eyes enhancing the emotional content of the slapstick humor. There is a glossary of the Spanish words. 2009, Holiday House, $16.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 9780823421800
ISBN: 0823421805
Added 8/13/2010
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If you're interested in reviewing children's and young adult books, then send a resume and writing sample to marilyn@childrenslit.com.