Hispanic Heritage Month    September 15 marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. The website http://www.infoplease.com/spot/hhm1.html 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/th_cincodemayo2006.html which may also be of interest. Contributor: Sheilah Egan Reviews Accidental Love Gary Soto    We meet a street-smart, tough, 14-year-old Marisa at the beginning of this novel. She is angry, without a boyfriend, fat, and devoted to her friend Alicia. By the end of the book, Marisa is happy, has found a boyfriend, has lost weight, and is more realistic about her friendship with Alicia. What brings about this transformation is time away from Marisa’s regular haunts and falling in love with a nerdy boy. It begins with a fight Marisa starts in which she loses her cell phone and picks up another’s. When the cell phones are exchanged, she meets Rene, a boy at Hamilton Magnet School who is very unlike Marisa. Yet, an attraction begins and the boy has an effect on her. Marisa transfers to his school by arranging to live in her aunt’s home which is in the school’s district. Soon she is acting in a play and following Rene to chess club. Even though school officials eventually send Marisa back to her high school, she has changed and has become a more mature and healthier Marisa who is now inclined to have a better future. The book is sprinkled with Spanish words and phrases. Marisa’s family is blue-collar and Latino. The love interest between Marisa and Rene is of the first-love type with no sexual explorations. The novel is a quick read and will appeal to middle school girls. 2006, Harcourt, $16.00. Ages 10 to 15. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter, Ph.D. (Children's Literature). Best Books: Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog 2006 Supplement to the Ninth Edition, 2006; H.W Wilson Company; United States ISBN: 0-15-205497-9 ISBN: 978-0-15-205497-7 Central American Immigrants to The United States: Refugees from Unrest Eric Schwartz    Central America has been the site of extreme political oppression, savage violence, and dire poverty. Needless to say, these conditions have encouraged a large-scale wave of migration. Many Central American immigrants end up in the United States. These people come to the US in search of a better life, one that will not be marked by the seemingly random violence of their homelands. This title presents some of the history of Central America as well as the pathways that many immigrants from this region follow to establish themselves in the United States of America. This illustrated book is part of a broader series titled “Hispanic Heritage.” Much of the power of this fine book comes from the author’s use of first-hand reports to highlight the lives of specific Central Americans. Readers will meet men, women, and children who chose to uproot their lives and head north. These compelling stories underscore the efforts made by these immigrants and the risks that they have taken. This is a thoughtful book, one that will aid students to better understand the reasons behind immigration from Central America to the USA. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-929-9 ISBN: 978-1-59084-929-3 ISBN: 978-1-59084-924-8 Cesar Chavez: Champion of Workers Tyler Schumacher    Cesar Chavez was an organizer and leader of the United Farm Workers union. Cesar, a Mexican American, grew up in a Spanish speaking home in Arizona. He spent his childhood at school or working on the family farm. During the Great Depression, the Chavez family lost their farm and moved to California. Here, Cesar lived the migrant worker life. Living conditions were bad, and pay for back-breaking work was horrible. There were no laws protecting farm workers. Cesar was taught to stand up for what he believed in. In his twenties, Cesar learned to organize groups from his job at a community service organization. Cesar believed that if migrant workers formed a union they could make farm owners treat them better. In 1962 he started the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA), which led to the 1965 Grape Strike in Delano, California. This strike lasted five years. Cesar promoted a nonviolent fight even when farmers attacked union members. In the end, farmers agreed to improve wages and conditions. A few years later, NFWA became the United Farm Workers. Cesar spent his life fighting for farm workers rights. He died in 1993, and was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994. This is an informative and interesting biography with wonderful photographs. The book would be great to use with upper elementary and junior high students when teaching about unions, migrant workers, civil rights, the effects of the depression, and leadership. It includes a time line, glossary, Internet sites, and a small book list. This book is part of “FactFinders” series. 2006, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Mandy Wollenzien (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-5436-8 ISBN: 0-7368-5436-3 Cuban Americans: Exiles from an Island Home Autumn Libal    In this title, a part of the illustrated “Hispanic Heritage” series, readers will encounter the many issues that surround the dichotomy between Cuban immigrants to the United States and their feelings about their former island homeland. For many Cuban-Americans their feelings about Fidel Castro and his communist government remain emotionally charged. Perhaps no other Hispanic subgroup in the United States has so pronounced an impact upon American foreign policy as do Cuban-Americans. To this very day federal policies in America toward Cuba are significantly impacted by the opinions of former citizens of Castro’s nation. In this particular book readers are given a chance to learn about Cuba’s history, the rise of Castro, waves of Cuban immigration to North America, and future trends. In each section of this tightly written and observant work, author Autumn Libal does a balanced job of sharing the passions of Cuban immigrants without taking sides. This is a thoughtful book and one that should help students better understand the dynamics of Cuban-American relations 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-928-0 ISBN: 978-1-59084-928-6 ISBN: 978-1-59084-924-8 Cuckoo Feathers Phyllis Reynolds Naylor Illustrated by Marcy Ramsey    Sarah wants to stand out among her friends--she is plain and white and there is nothing as far as she is concerned that makes her special. She lives in an apartment building in the loft section with her mother and brother. Mom is an artist and Dad is working somewhere overseas. Sarah takes care of her brother Riley, and they are both fascinated by the pigeons that visit their window ledge. One day new neighbors move into the building across the alley and the pigeons move into an old flower pot on this neighbor’s ledge. Sarah is not happy; she has lost something special. The story has a steady pace as Sarah befriends the new neighbors and learns about survival of the fittest, while watching the pigeons she has named Coo and Cuckoo try to raise a family. In the end Sarah does come up with a plan to help the pigeons she loves, as well as a pair of pigeons who appear to have intruded. Her life is enriched through the friendships with neighbors and by finding a peaceful solution to a problem that made her and her friends sad and angry. Dad remarks in his weekly phone call that she is indeed “full of good ideas.” Marcy Ramsey has provided charming black-and-white illustrations that show the kids, their pigeon friends, and the neighborhood. The cover gives a colorful look at these kids (Anglo, Hispanic, and African American), and one subtle lesson about skin color is slipped into the opening chapter. Naylor has a real knack for picking up on things kids worry about and how they interact with each other. Part of the “Simply Sarah” series. 2006, Marshall Cavendish, $14.95. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).    The entire plot of this title, a part of Naylor’s “Simply Sarah” series, concerns Sarah’s proprietary interest in two pigeons nesting on the ledge outside the window of her apartment--or, rather, disloyally nesting instead on the ledge outside the window of her new neighbors’ facing apartment. How can she lure Coo and Cuckoo back to her own ledge? And how can she save them from the threat of a competing pigeon, whom she christens Bad Bird? But in the capable hands of veteran writer Naylor, this is all that is needed to spin a satisfying story about the fascination of engaging with the natural world, even in a thoroughly urban setting. Sarah’s best friend Peter is African-American; the new neighbors who “steal” Coo and Cuckoo away are Mexican-American; another friend is Asian-American. Together the children learn to mourn the death of one little hatchling, while respecting the natural processes that led to it. In the end there is room on both apartment ledges for pigeons aplenty, and room in the children’s hearts for new friendships, as well. This just-right chapter book is appealingly illustrated by Ramsey’s ink-and-wash drawings, which further invite the reader into the windows of Sarah’s welcoming world. 2006, Marshall Cavendish, $14.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Claudia Mills, Ph.D. (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7614-5285-0 ISBN: 0-7614-5285-0 Diego Rivera: Artist and Muralist Megan Schoeneberger    Hailed as the most famous Mexican artist of the twentieth century, Diego Rivera (1886-1957) is renowned for his large-scale murals depicting the life of everyday Mexicans. Sickly as a young child, Rivera drew “as soon as he could hold a pencil.” He studied art professionally on a full time basis beginning at age twelve. After finishing art school in Mexico, Rivera studied in Spain and then in France. He painted in the then new style of cubism but he also found inspiration in the huge murals he saw in Italy. Back in Mexico, he developed his signature approach to art: painting large-scale public murals that celebrated the lives of Mexican workers. During the Great Depression in the 1930s Rivera painted a mural in Chicago that featured American workers. When he later painted Soviet communist leader Vladimir Lenin into a mural at Rockefeller Center, however, he caused a stir, and his mural there was eventually destroyed. Rivera’s third wife, Frida Kahlo, was also a renowned Mexican artist. A time line is included, as are “Fast Facts,” a glossary, and information on how to access special Internet sites linked to this introductory biography through “Fact Hound.” Other books in the “Fact Finders Biographies: Great Hispanics” series include Ellen Ochoa: Pioneering Astronaut and Cesar Chavez: Champion of Workers. 2006, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Valerie O. Patterson (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-5437-5 ISBN: 0-7368-5437-1 Dolores Huerta Richard Worth    This biography provides a much-needed account of Dolores Huerta, a tireless advocate for workers in the fields, and a role model for Hispanics and all Americans. Mr. Worth writes a very detailed account of the organizations with which Ms. Huerta worked. Unfortunately, it is hard to grasp the instrumental role that Dolores had. The biography includes so many side-bars, descriptions of other important people during the era, and background that Dolores’ role becomes lost. This particular aspect of United States history gets short shrift due to attention given to events such as the Vietnam War. However, the biographer could use the sidebars and headlines to provide a better understanding of the period. In this biography, more detail about the history of the area or the organizations does not provide a better understanding. It would be hard not to recommend this book since so little is known about Dolores Huerta; her story deserves to be told. One wishes the book told Huerta’s story more plainly. In spite of these shortcomings, this biography would serve young adults through community college readers wanting to find out more about this remarkable woman. 2007, Chelsea House Publishers, $30.00. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Elizabeth Fronk (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7910-8838-3 ISBN: 978-0-7910-8838-8 Ellen Ochoa Judy L. Hasday    How many children have answered, after being asked what they want to be when they grow up, that they want to be an astronaut? For Ellen Ochoa, the first female Hispanic-American NASA astronaut, it wasn’t a life-long dream. However, through her scholastic achievements, her path unfailingly veered toward a career in space exploration. The book introduces readers to Ochoa through an examination of the Columbia tragedy, and a historical overview of space exploration. A biographical look at her life follows, each chapter peppered with photographs and fact boxes (covering topics such as famous physicists and their contributions to science, to the first women of NASA). It concludes with a chronology and timeline. Readers will come away from the book understanding that Ochoa emphasizes the importance of education for everyone and believes that anything is possible, regardless of one’s ethnic background, gender, or color, for those who are dedicated and hard working. This book would make a valuable addition to a school or classroom library, and would be particularly useful in a biography unit or as part of multicultural studies. Part of the “Great Hispanic Heritage” series of books that includes such titles as Juan Ponce de Leon, Isabel Allende, and Carlos Santana. Highly recommended. 2007, Chelsea House/Infobase Publishing, $30.00. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Cindy L. Carolan (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7910-8842-1 ISBN: 978-0-7910-8842-5 Ellen Ochoa: Pioneering Astronaut Lissa Johnston Consultant, James Gerard    As part of the “Fact Finders” series, this biography is well written and the format is reader-friendly. Historical photographs that add interest and support to the text accompany every page. The author also includes boxes on each page that contain either quotations or facts. Many people influenced Ellen, but she is later quoted as saying, “My mother influenced me the most…Her primary focus was the enjoyment of learning. That’s what I got from her example,” and a good example it was. Ellen’s mother started college when Ellen was a baby and graduated 22 years later. Once Ellen set her dreams on becoming an astronaut she never looked back. Readers will learn about her life working with NASA. Did you know that Ellen took her flute along with her on her first mission, or that she has traveled more than 16 million miles in space? Included at the end of the book are “Fast Facts,” a time line, a glossary, Internet sites, “Read More,” and an index. It amazes me how much information is given to the reader in just 32 pages. This book would be perfect in a classroom or school library. It also lends itself to the science and social studies classrooms. The author highlights all vocabulary words that can be found in the glossary. The book can be used as a resource for a research paper or for nonfiction reading. The quotations chosen for this book are great, but my favorite for children to read is, “Education is what allows you to stand out.” What a great writing prompt this would be! Both boys and girls will find this biography interesting. I highly recommend it. 2006, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Kathie M. Josephs (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-5438-2 ISBN: 0-7368-5438-X Estrella's Quinceañera Malín Alegría    Ever since Estrella started at an elite prep school, her life has become very confusing. She no longer feels like she can relate to her two old friends, but her new friends make her feel like a phony. Now her mother and aunt are planning a very elaborate quinceañera, a party Estrella does not want and knows her family cannot afford anyway. Most confusing of all, Estrella finds herself falling in love with Speedy, a boy that her new friends and her father find unacceptable. Estrella finds herself trying to please everyone at once and failing miserably. She has to figure out what she wants for herself before she is able to go forward with a quinceañera. Estrella is a very realistic, engaging, flawed person; the same can be said of all the characters in Estrella's world. The reader will enjoy following Estrella through her trials, tribulations, and triumphs. This funny, touching story is a real coming-of-age gem. 2006, Simon and Schuster, $14.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Amie Rose Rotruck (Children's Literature). Best Books: The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2007; Bank Street College of Education; United States Top 10 Youth Romances, 2006; American Library Association-Booklist; United States Awards, Honors, Prizes: Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Best Book 2006 Language Arts- Grades 7-12 Novels United States ISBN: 978-0-689-87809-1 ISBN: 0-689-87809-5 Eva Perón: First Lady of the People Kremena Spengler    Perhaps the most amazing fact about the life of Eva Perón is that it lasted only thirty-three years. Her ambition, activism, and determined spirit led her to cram more into those years than most people could in a long lifetime. Young readers may not grasp that thought, but they should be impressed by her personality and enthusiasm. Her childhood in Los Toldos, Argentina, was difficult because her parents were not married and her mother had to care for five children with very little money. This led to Eva’s dream of becoming a movie star and was reflected later in her personal attention and charitable attitude toward the poor. She did some work as an actress, but in 1945 she married Juan Perón and, while working on his campaign for president of Argentina, she became well known among the people. After becoming first lady at the age of 27, Eva Perón became involved in aiding workers and getting women involved in politics. This book is written for the younger student, which presents a problem because the politics of Argentina were so complicated. Nevertheless, there is no question that when Eva Perón died in 1952, she was a heroine to her people. Part of the “Fact Finders Biographies: Great Hispanics” series. 2007, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-6415-2 ISBN: 0-7368-6415-6 Evelyn Cisneros: Prima Ballerina Katherine Krohn    Born into a musical family, Cisneros discovered her love of ballet when she was seven years old. At the age of thirteen, she made her momentous decision to become a professional dancer; she devoted her life to that goal from that point on. She was only sixteen when she left her California home to attend the School of American Ballet in New York City for two semesters. Then she began her internship with the San Francisco Ballet. She remained with the San Francisco Ballet for twenty-three years, receiving accolades for her starring roles in major productions, such as Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Cinderella, Romeo and Juliet, Lambarena, and La Fille mal Gardee. Many photographs in both color and black-and- white feature the highlights of Cisneros’ childhood, career, and present life. The story of this remarkable woman’s life is told in short, direct sentences using controlled vocabulary, making this book accessible to young and/or struggling readers. Reference aids include a table of contents, fast facts, a time line, a glossary, a list of internet sites, a bibliography, and an index. “Fact Finders Biographies: Great Hispanics” series. 2006, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Phyllis Kennemer, Ph.D. (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7368-6416-4 ISBN: 978-0-7368-6416-9 First Encounters Between Spain and The Americas: Two Worlds Meet Kenneth McIntosh    This book is part of a series entailed “Hispanic Heritage,” published by Mason Crest. The series consultant, Dr. Jose E. Limon, begins the book with an introduction. He explains that before there was a United States, Hispanics were living in this country, having arrived from Spain and settled in New Mexico and Florida. The rest of the book is divided into eight chapters with back matter. The author has done a nice job of complementing the factual information with interesting sidebars. There are also some Spanish words listed at the end of each chapter. One chapter discusses about Queen Isabella whose half-brother, Henry IV, was the King of Castile before she won the crown in order to save Castile. Another chapter deals with the Spanish explorer Cortez who came to Mexico to claim Castile for his country. The chapter about “The Story of Our Lady of Guadalupe” reveals the importance of religion in Latinos’ lives. Sidebars with the titles of “An Invisible Killer,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” and “A Voice Crying in the Wilderness” add interest to the text. Illustrations consist of photographs, prints, and artwork. This book is a good place for Hispanics and non-Hispanics to start learning about this rich culture. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers Inc, $22.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-925-6 ISBN: 978-1-59084-925-5 ISBN: 978-1-59084-924-8 Frida Kahlo: Painter of Strength Lissa Johnston    This book illustrates the life and physical hardships faced by the painter Frida Kahlo. It does an excellent job informing the reader about the world of art and how this strong Hispanic woman was able to find power through it. Readers are introduced to surrealism and self-portraits, which made Kahlo famous. The book is also filled with brilliant pictures, including many examples of Frida Kahlo’s work. There are interesting facts sprinkled throughout that will engross young readers. It also gives some information about Diego Rivera, Kahlo’s husband and fellow painter. There is even a time line at the back of the book to help readers place the important dates from Kahlo’s life, a list of further readings, and a glossary. This enchanting picture book would be great to use to help readers understand Hispanic culture, as well as Mexican history, like the Mexican Revolution. It is also a great historical illustration of polio, a disease Kahlo suffered from at a young age. The theme of determination through hardship, particularly physical, will inspire readers. This book is part of the “Fact Finders” series. 2007, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Traci Avalos (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-6417-6 ISBN: 0-7368-641-72 Gloria Estefan: Singing Sensation Tim O'Shei    Gloria Estefan, a Cuban-born Latin singing sensation, was a major contributor to the popular music scene of the 1980s. This book, part of the “Fact Finders Biographies: Great Hispanics” series, provides an in-depth portrait of a talented female artist and woman of strength and courage. The young reader will learn about Gloria’s childhood, her move to the United States, emerging interests in music, her rise to fame, and her near fatal car accident. The reader will also get a snapshot of historical and scientific facts, as well as learn key words and concepts, such as the Pan American Games, Vietnam War, Fidel Castro, political involvement, multiple sclerosis, spine research, and advocacy for those in need. This series is written in an easily understood format with an interest level from second to fifth grade. With a readability level of the third to fourth grade, this text gives the struggling reader ample information without becoming excessively wordy. The text boxes within a photograph detail pertinent information and lend support and depth to the text. The last few pages promote the acquisition of new knowledge by providing “Fast Facts” for quick reference, a glossary, and a safe Internet search option. Also in the last few pages is a timeline of Gloria’s life that could easily be used prior to beginning a social studies lesson on writing personal biographies. 2006, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Kimberly O’Meara (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-5439-9 ISBN: 0-7368-5439-8 Guatemala ABCs: A Book about the People and Places of Guatemala Marcie Aboff Illustrated by Zachary Trover    The alphabet format of the books allows inclusion of unrelated facts about Guatemala in brief text supplemented by a FAST FACT feature for many letters, which amplifies the basic information. For example, "Q is for quetzal," Guatemala's national bird. In the FAST FACT you learn that Guatemala's money is named after the quetzal bird and that 100 cents (centavos) equal 1 quetzal. This format provides a great deal of information in compact form, located through both the written descriptions and the colorful illustrations, but it also separates facts about a topic. The fast facts "B is for bus" and "U is for unity" deal with transportation in Guatemala; information about food and markets can be found in U (Unity), T (Tortilla), and I (Ice Cream). Some letters are used with familiar examples ("A is for Art," "J is for Jade," "S is for Soccer") while other letters are exemplified with Guatemalan examples ("K is for Kinich Ahau," "T is for Tortilla"). A few of these are phonetically spelled but many are not, leaving the non-Spanish speaking reader wondering how to say "Kinich Ahua" or "quetzal." A helpful introductory map locates Guatemala both in Central America and in the world. The increasing Hispanic population in today's US schools makes this ABCs especially timely and useful. This book is part of the "Country ABCs" series. 2006, Picture Window Books/Capstone Press, $23.93. Ages 4 to 9. Reviewer: Mildred Hart (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-4048-1570-8 ISBN: 978-1-4048-1570-4 Isabel Allende Tim McNeese    The life of Chilean-American novelist Isabel Allende is detailed in this book from "The Great Hispanic Heritage" series. The opening chapter describes a very affecting moment in Allende's life: the death of her daughter Paula in 1992 from porphyria. After that, McNeese describes Allende's early life in Peru, including her father leaving the family when Allende was only three. Later, she and her family lived in Beirut during the violent events of the late 1950s. They then moved to Chile, where Allende married and began a career as a television reporter. The remainder of the book focuses on Allende's career as a writer and journalist, her troubled marriage, and the challenges she faced in the aftermath of the coup that overthrew her uncle, Salvador Allende. Eventually exiled, Allende continued to write and be a voice for the oppressed people of Chile. McNeese expertly weaves the details of Allende's personal, political, and literary life into a thoroughly engaging biography. 2006, Chelsea House Publishers, $30.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Amie Rose Rotruck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7910-8836-7 ISBN: 978-0-7910-8836-4 José Martí Jon Sterngass    An author, editor, translator, and political force, José Martí is one of the greatest thinkers in Cuban history. Born to lower-class, uneducated parents, Martí quickly rose in the ranks thanks to his teacher and mentor Rafael María de Mendive, a prominent Cuban journalist and poet. Never afraid to declare his opposition to Spanish rule, Martí spent some time in prison, after which he was sent into exile in Spain. He jumped from Mexico and Guatemala to Venezuela, trying to gain momentum for a campaign against the Spanish occupation of his homeland, after which he landed in New York City and found a public ready to listen. Latin Americans were eager to hear Martí’s Cuban perspective and Martí enjoyed freedom of the press to its fullest while in New York. Martí exposed his heart in his poetry and later offered it up as a sacrifice for Cuba Libre when he engaged the Spanish in battle in 1895. Despite his unwillingness to be a pawn, Martí’s name is still used to defend ideals he would not have supported. Well-written and enlightening, this is a must-have for libraries with frequent biography requests. 2007, Chelsea House/Infobase, $30.00. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Kristy Lyn Sutorius (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7910-8841-3 ISBN: 978-0-7910-8841-8 Junípero Serra: Explorer and Missionary Tyler Schumacher    In a time before trains, planes, or automobiles, Junípero Serra traveled more than enough miles to circle the earth, most of them on foot. Born Miguel José Serra on the European isle of Majorca, he dedicated his life to learning and spreading the Catholic faith. He became involved in the church as a teenager, as soon as the Franciscan friars would allow him. After becoming a priest and a teacher, Junípero wanted to be a missionary. Shortly thereafter, he volunteered for a trip to Mexico. Later, he was sent to continue his work in California. During his time there, this hard-working fellow established nine missions. Since this biography is written for early readers, it does gloss over some of the issues related to missionary work and indigenous people. Nevertheless, it is a compelling addition to the “Great Hispanics Fact Finders” series. 2006, Capstone, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-5440-5 ISBN: 0-7368-5440-1 Latino Americans in Sports, Film, Music, and Government: Trailblazers Richard Mintzer    The “Hispanic Heritage” series is designed to provide readers with an overview of the contributions made by Americans who migrated to the United States in order to start a new life. In this title Richard Mintzer presents some of the more public Hispanic figures drawn from the realms of politics, sports, and the arts. Within the pages of this concise cultural study, youngsters will be introduced to figures such as Alex Rodriguez, a superstar baseball player. Cruz M. Bustamonte is presented as a leading political figure in his role as Lieutenant Governor of California. Gloria Estafon is offered as but one example of the contribution to popular music that Hispanic performers have made. In each biographical sketch the author takes time to detail not only the successes achieved by the figure in question, but also the difficulties they had to overcome. In this way this slim book affords younger readers a fine opportunity to better appreciate the success stories that do exist within the broader Hispanic community. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-936-1 ISBN: 978-1-59084-936-1 ISBN: 978-1-59084-924-8 Latino Arts and Their Influence on The United States: Songs, Dreams, and Dances Rory Makosz    This book explains the influence Latino arts have on the United States and how a song or piece of art can impact an entire community. The format of the book is unique, with sub-chapters within each chapter. This gives the same effect as using bullets to emphasize and give examples. Sidebars that contain specific vocabulary words found on that page--with definitions--are used throughout the book. This method is an improvement over the separate glossary and aids fluency in reading. Photographs add much interest and help the reader to understand how and why Latino art has such an impact on people. I believe that the author sums up what he is trying to explain to the reader in one sentence: “The cultures of the Americas are unique in that they are not merely the product of a blending of cultures, but still contain distinct groups with fascinating and diverse histories.” This book would be perfect for school and classroom libraries as well as the personal libraries of individuals who love history and powerful writing. The author includes a time line, a list of other books of interest, websites for further information, and an index. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Kathie M. Josephs (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-938-8 ISBN: 978-1-59084-938-5 ISBN: 978-1-59084-924-8 Latino Migrant Workers: America's Harvesters Christopher Hovius    If you pick up a piece of fruit or prepare a salad to eat, you are probably consuming a food article harvested by a migrant farm worker. Many of the more than one million migrant farm workers in the United States are of Hispanic origin. The life of migrant farm workers represents one of the most economically depressed existences in the US. Migrant farm workers face long days, few holidays, low pay, limited- to no benefits, and dangerous working conditions. This is a difficult life but one that many Hispanics have chosen to earn a living or send money home to their families. In this volume of the “Hispanic Heritage” series Christopher Hovius presents a well-researched account of the history and contemporary life of migrant farm workers. This illustrated book does an excellent job of depicting the daily life of these hard working and underprivileged people. Readers will come away from this social studies text with a better understanding of the challenges faced by adults and children who serve as migrant farm workers. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-937-X ISBN: 978-1-59084-937-8 The Latino Religious Experience: People of Faith and Vision Kenneth R. McIntosh    While on the first page we are warned not to stereotype, the author begins with the negative image of a young Hispanic man who responds to poverty by turning to drugs and crime. While this story may have a place in the text, it is an unfortunate opener to the subject matter. Generally the book is well written and readable. It is a usable introduction to the topic, as the language is casual yet accurate. The text focuses on Roman Catholicism (especially the veneration of the Virgin of Guadalupe), Pentacostalism, and Latin folk religion. Santeria is included in the folk tradition chapter. Short on actual beliefs the book does introduce some history but spends most of its text on the sense of community, identity, and spirituality of the Latino community in the United States. There are plenty of colorful images throughout the book. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Sarah Rachel Egelman (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-933-7 ISBN: 978-1-59084-933-0 Latinos Today: Facts and Figures Ken McIntosh    If demographic trends continue as predicted, the growth of population among Hispanics living in the United States will make this ethnic group a force to be reckoned with in the twenty-first century. Much of what we now consider the west and southwest of the United States was once Spanish and then Mexican territory. In the 19th century, following the Mexican War, those vast stretches of land changed hands and became a part of the USA. This absorption, followed by significant immigration from Mexico, Central America, and South America during the past century, has led to a burgeoning Hispanic population in the US. This shift in population provides both strength through diversity and hard questions for American society to address. In this title author Kenneth McIntosh presents information and trends related to the emergence of Hispanics as a steadily more populace group in the United States. Issues related to bilingualism, economic equity, political participation, and cultural assimilation versus maintenance, are all touched upon in this well-thought-out book. Readers with an interest in Hispanic affairs will find this a useful and easy to read text. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-940-X ISBN: 978-1-59084-940-8 ISBN: 978-1-59084-924-8 Pancho Villa, Rebel of the Mexican Revolution Mary Englar    The highly controversial but inarguably influential subject of the latest in the “Great Hispanics Fact Finders” series is Pancho Villa, rebel leader, Mexican general, and outlaw. A childhood raised in poverty gave Pancho (born Doroteo) a keen understanding of the difficulties faced by Mexican workers and their families. When his country’s president refused to allow a fair election and, instead, jailed his opponent (a man by the name of Madero), Pancho joined the rebellion and became a leader. Eventually, elections were held, and Madero became the president. Nevertheless, just a few short years later, he was assassinated. A civil war began. Pancho gathered as many as 40,000 men to fight under him, but lost several battles. When supplies ran low, his remaining troops entered a New Mexico town to take what they needed. Meeting with resistance, they killed eighteen Americans. Pancho Villa escaped back to Mexico and retired to a ranch given to him by the new president. Several years later, Villa himself met a violent end. Englar has done an amazing job of paring Villa’s life down to a concise, brief story. Includes a timeline, a glossary, a bibliography, and details about facthound.com, where readers can find current links to more information. 2006, Capstone, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-5441-2 ISBN: 0-7368-5441-X Pedro Martinez Tom Lashnits    Pedro’s arrival in Boston in 1997 was his debut with the Boston Red Sox as a pitcher. I spent many a day at Fenway Park when I first got out of college. To this day I consider myself a Boston Red Sox fan, even though I now live in Miami. So, it is with a great deal of joy that I review the book about Pedro’s life. Felipe, Matty, and Jesus Alou were among the first baseball players from the Dominican Republic to make it to the major leagues. These three brothers paved the way for other Dominican players, including Pedro. In fact, at one point, Felipe, the eldest Alou brother, was Pedro’s manager. For many of the Dominican kids, the best way to get to America, where they could build a better life for themselves, was through baseball. As young boys, Pedro and his older brother Ramon, a baseball star in his own right, did not have the right equipment to practice the sport. So they threw and hit anything that was round. Much to the chagrin of their sisters, many of their dolls lost their heads. Over the years Pedro through his outstanding pitching has won the Cy Young award three times, and in 2004 he helped the Boston Red Sox win the World Series for the first time in eighty-six years, and you can be sure that I was watching those games. Kudos to Pedro Martinez, one of the top pitchers of his generation. 2006, Chelsea House Publishers, $30.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Leila Toledo (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7910-8840-5 ISBN: 978-0-7910-8840-1 Play ball! Jorge Posada with Robert Burleigh Illustrated by Raúl Colón    This collaboration of author and athlete has produced the story of how Jorge Posada’s acceptance of his father’s advice resulted in his becoming a world champion baseball player. As a youngster Posada was interested in baseball and was developing as a strong right-handed batter. His father encouraged him to train himself to bat left-handed, thus becoming a switch-hitter. As he honed his skills, Jorge had a lot of support from his coach and family. Making the change to left-handed batting was hard and frustrating but he persevered and proved the value of his hard work to everyone by making a crucial hit during an important game. His family took him to Yankee Stadium on vacation and he announced that he would someday play on “this field”--and he did. Jorge Posada is the starting catcher for the New York Yankees, a four-time All-Star Game catcher, and four-time world champion. He has also founded the Jorge Posada Foundation, a group that provides support to families whose child is affected by craniosynostosis, a congenital or birth defect that causes an abnormally shaped skull. Born in Puerto Rico, he now lives in New York with his wife and children. Colon’s illustrations are quite well suited for presenting this tribute to hard work and determination. This lovely book will serve as an inspiration for youngsters who want to perfect some skill of their own--baseball or otherwise--it demonstrates the power of perseverance and of listening to sound advice. 2006, Simon & Schuster, $16.95. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Sheilah Egan (Children's Literature). Best Books: The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2007; Bank Street College of Education; Outstanding Merit; United States ISBN: 978-1-4169-0687-2 ISBN: 1-4169-0687-8 Salvador Dali Tim McNeese    One of the most intriguing and familiar twentieth-century artists, the surrealist Salvador Dali, receives an even-handed, sympathetic biographic treatment in this slender book by Tim McNeese. It is a volume in the “Great Hispanic Heritage” series from Chelsea House publishers. This series is aimed at older elementary and middle school students, and includes luminaries ranging from literary giant Miguel de Cervantes to controversial athlete Sammy Sosa. McNeese traces the evolution of Dali from his over-indulged childhood to eccentric, attention-grabbing surrealist painter and finally honored national icon. He intelligently discusses the influence of Freudian psychology on Dali’s painting, as well as Dali’s convoluted, often overheated relationships with other great twentieth century artists and writers. Because the author is so frank about the artist’s sexual ambivalence and frequent references to sexuality in his paintings, this book is probably best reserved for older students. Disappointingly, few of the artist’s paintings are reproduced in this book, even those minutely analyzed by the author--a genuine failing that is not adequately addressed by listing several Web sites for viewing Dali’s works. A somewhat limited timeline, footnotes, a bibliography, a suggested reading list, and an index round out the volume. 2006, Chelsea House Publishers, $30.00. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Michele Tremaine (Children's Literature). ISBN: 0-7910-8837-5 ISBN: 978-0-7910-8837-1 Sammy Sosa: Baseball Superstar Nick Healy    When he was young, Sammy Sosa dreamed of becoming a boxer. His mother disapproved (she didn’t want her son to get hurt), and so his brother introduced him to baseball. Sammy knew that baseball players from all around the world could become rich and famous. And that was something that Sammy, who had dropped out of school to earn money for his family, wanted. Sammy worked hard, getting up early every morning to exercise and to practice baseball. He wanted to be a good player--he became a great one. From the “Fact Finders Biographies: Great Hispanics” series, this biography’s six short chapters tell the story of the boy from the Dominican Republic who became one of professional baseball’s superstars. The easy-to-read text is illustrated with many color photographs. At the end of the book, readers will find parallel timelines of Sosa’s life and events in history, a brief glossary, a list of Internet sites and books to learn even more about Sosa, and an index. 2006, Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Anita Barnes Lowen (Children's Literature). ISBN: 978-0-7368-5443-6 ISBN: 0-7368-5443-6 San Antonio Mary Stout    The city of San Antonio, Texas, is one of the oldest cities in the United States. San Antonio is home to the Alamo, a famous battle site from Texas’ fight for independence from Mexico. The people of San Antonio are largely Hispanic, or of Hispanic descent. Over one third of San Antonio’s 1.2 million population claims to speak Spanish at home. If you travel to San Antonio there are several historical landmarks that you will want to see: The old Mexican market at Haymarket Place was a center of commerce for the city with fruits, vegetables, flowers, and everything else you can imagine. Today it still operates, as does the San Juan Capistrano mission, an early religious facility that sought to convert the native Indians to Christianity. And, of course, no visit to San Antonio would be complete without a tour of the Alamo. Archival photos and fact boxes throughout the text give the reader information about the city and its development. Supplemental pages include a glossary, an index, recommended web sites, and a timeline. This is an excellent resource for a middle school collection. This book is part of the “Great Cities of the World” series, which currently includes thirty titles. 2005, World Almanac Library/Gareth Stevens, $30.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Joyce Rice (Children's Literature). ISBN: 083685053X ISBN: 0836852133 ISBN: 9780836850536 ISBN: 9780836852134 South America's Immigrants to The United States: Flight from Turmoil Kenneth and Marsha McIntosh    Every year thousands of immigrants enter the United States from various countries in South America. Why do these people leave their homelands to journey thousands of miles to start a new life? In this illustrated volume in the “Hispanic Heritage” series readers are offered insights into that basic question. As the authors point out in this eye-opening book, many South American immigrants leave their native lands to seek a better and safer life in the USA. For immigrants from nations such as Columbia or Peru, a major impetus to migrate is or was the instability and danger associated with bloody civil wars. Other South American immigrants flee from nations wherein they are unable to support their families. For some South American immigrants, fleeing their original land is a matter of survival as they are political refugees seeking asylum. Whatever the reason, once in the United States, South Americans face a wide range of challenges and opportunities. In this title readers will both encounter a knowledgeable rendering of this factual back-story as well as the human interest side of it. Throughout this informative and moving book readers are repeatedly allowed to meet actual people who became immigrants. These first-hand stories fill in the blanks as to why and how South Americans come to the United States. This is a powerful story well told by Dr. Limon. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-930-2 ISBN: 978-1-59084-930-9 ISBN: 978-1-59084-924-8 The Story of Latino Civil Rights: Fighting for Justice Miranda Hunter    When Americans think about the “Civil Rights Movement” they generally conjure up images of African-American concerns. While those attempts to ameliorate the ravages of racism certainly were essential and ongoing, so too are efforts made on behalf of Hispanic residents and citizens. Over the past few decades broad-based civil rights legislation such as affirmative action have had an impact upon barriers faced by Hispanics. Yet, as Miranda Hunter points out in this title, part of the “Hispanic Heritage” series, those barriers continue to plague many Latinos and Latinas. Readers are afforded a solid look at the history and ongoing struggle to guarantee an even playing field for Hispanic Americans and immigrants from Latin American nations. In the future, changes in demographics will make Hispanic Americans the largest minority group in the nation. Armed with steadily increasing political power, civil rights issues will continue to be a serious social concern in America. This well-written book does a fine job of explaining not only the civil rights issues involved but also potential future directions. 2006, Mason Crest Publishers, $22.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature). ISBN: 1-59084-934-5 ISBN: 978-1-59084-934-7 Under the Baseball Moon John H. Ritter    In laid-back Ocean Beach, California, 15-year-old skateboarder Andy Ramos dreams of hitting the big-time with his trumpet, his fusion music, and his new old friend, softball player Glory Martinez. Offered a shortcut to stardom by a mysterious man in black, he nearly loses his happiness and his girl. This is an interesting spin on the theme of selling your soul to the devil, told by a decent kid with some concern for the people he steps on along the way, solid values in his roots, and genuine love for his family and his friends. The clearly depicted southern California coastal setting includes an appropriately diverse cast of characters. Plenty of street slang and Spanish are mixed into the dialog. Realistic softball and music scenes alternate with vaguely mystical appearances of a tarot card reader, a street character named the Holy Jokester, and the man in the black suit who shape shifts in the end to a Native American ancestor figure. This redefines Andy’s experience as a kind of coming-of-age test, perhaps an unnecessary additional fusion. The story opens with a map and closes with Andy’s song lyrics (with chords but no music) highlighting some of the more notable scenes. Andy and Glory first appeared in a short story, “Old School/FuChar Skool” in Big City Cool (Persea Books, 2002). This new version is long, but likely to be appealing to a broad range of readers with its fusion of pop music, street culture, softball, and first love. 2006, Philomel/Penguin, $16.99. Ages 11 to 16. Reviewer: Kathleen Isaacs (Children's Literature). Best Books: The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2007; Bank Street College of Education; Outstanding Merit; United States Kirkus Book Review Stars, April 15, 2006; United States School Library Journal Book Review Stars, July 2006; Cahners; United States Top 10 Sports Books for Youth, 2006; American Library Association-Booklist; United States ISBN: 0-399-23623-6 ISBN: 978-0-399-23623-5 Added 8/28/2007 To stay up to date on new books on this topic, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here.