LSSL 5361 Culture 3 Reviews

 

• Title:  Yum! Mmmm! Que Rico! Americas' Sproutings

• Bibliography:  

• Mora, P. (2007). Yum! Mmmm! Que Rico!: America's Sproutings. Lee & Low Books Incorporated.

ISBN: 978-1584302711

• Summary: 

• In Yum! Mmmm! Que Rico!: Americas’ Sproutings, the author introduces foods native to the Americas using beautiful poems which describe them in detail. From blueberries which “fill your mouth with blue” to chili peppers with their “green mouth fire”, and chocolate described as “brown magic” which “melts on your tongue,”  Pat Mora offers the reader mouth-watering descriptions of fourteen different types of food and gives details about their particular region of origin.  

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• Critical Analysis:

• Pat Mora did an excellent job combining beautiful lyrics and poetry while presenting foods native to the Americas. Each food is introduced with an entertaining poem.  The foods presented in this book are from different regions of the Americas, which makes it a great tool to use when wanting to introduce children to foods and cultures around the world.

• Cultural markers are evident in the Spanish words sprinkled throughout the story. Multicultural themes are also observable in the way the foods are arranged and with the use of the complimentary colors which make the foods stand out in delicious appeal. The people in the illustrations have black hair, a variety of skin colors, and features common to Hispanic cultures. Animal characters are depicted in bold colors and designs unique to Hispanic culture as well.   

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• The illustrations are beautiful.  The illustrator has used bright colors to create humorous pictures which make this book fun to read or just look at. While the factual information at the edges of the pages might lose the interest of a younger group, they will certainly be attracted by its vibrant colors and fun illustrations. This book is sure to capture the attention of children and adults.  

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• Review Excerpts:

"This inventive stew of food haiku celebrates the indigenous foods of the Americas." --Booklist

"Teachers will find this a welcome addition to their social-studies units, but it should also win a broad general audience for its inventive, fun-filled approach to an ever-popular topic: food." --School Library Journal

• Connections:

• Other books by Pat Mora:

    Gracias • Thanks

    A Piñata in a Pine Tree: A Latino Twelve Days of Christmas

Book Fiesta!: Celebrate Children's Day/Book Day; Celebremos El dia de los ninos/El dia de los libros

    Related books:

Comiendo el Arcoíris - Eating the Rainbow: A Bilingual Spanish English Book for Learning Food and Colors ISBN:  978-1736312803

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• Title:   Crying in the Bathroom: A Memoir

• Bibliography:  

• Sánchez, E. L. (2022). Crying in the Bathroom: A Memoir. Penguin Publishing Group.

• ISBN:  978-0593296936

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• Summary: 

• Crying in the Bathroom: A Memoir is a series of essays in which Erika L. Sanchez reflects on moments of her life.  The essays present moments of desperation and moments of hope.  They cover topics such as anxiety and depression, but they also celebrate the moments of clarity in her life. and how the challenges she faced, helped shape her identity and personal growth.  The title of the book, "Crying in the Bathroom" symbolizes the private struggles many face behind closed doors.  

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• Critical Analysis:

• Crying in the Bathroom: A Memoir is a touching autobiography recounting the personal journey through various challenges and triumphs. The book goes into the author's experiences with mental health struggles, identity crises, and the search for self-acceptance. It explores themes of blame, resilience, and the impact of expectations set by society, on a person’s life.  

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The cultural markers are very evident throughout the book.  Words in Spanish are used in most chapters.  Additionally, words describing skin tones such as in, “a man with a beautiful brown face began flirting with me”,  are also used.  Cultural expectations are also mentioned.  The author repeatedly describes how her family had certain cultural beliefs and how she would disappoint them if she did not conform to them.  

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• Overall, Crying in the Bathroom: A Memoir is a wonderful read.  It is a raw and emotional account of the author’s journey but at the same time, it helps the reader submerge into the experiences detailed and allows a better understanding of what it is like to be in the middle of two worlds.  Erika L. Sanchez allows us to dig deep into her life as the daughter of Mexican immigrants.  Through this memoir, she empowers and speaks to young women of color who may be facing similar situations and who may feel hopeless.  I truly enjoyed reading this boo.

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• Review Excerpts:

• “Her ability to relate to readers on a personal, intellectual, and cultural levels is one of the book’s greatest achievements…An engrossing, accessible, heart-opening recollection of a fascinating life.” --Booklist

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• "Her writing shines with a deep humility wrought from the hard-won nature of her personal peace. The result is another satisfying addition to Sánchez's deeply moving body of works."--Publishers Weekly

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• Connections:

• Other books by Erika L. Sánchez:

• I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

• Lessons on Expulsion: Poems

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• Related books:

    The Education of a Wetback ISBN:  978-1732003569

    And She Was Never the Same Again: A Multigenerational Memoir 

ISBN:  979-8989544301

• Title:  Viva Frida

• Bibliography:  

Morales, Y. (2014). Viva Frida! Roaring Brook Press.

ISBN:  978-1596436039

• Summary: 

• In Viva Frida!, Yuyi Morales fascinatingly presents Frida’s creative process.  Frida Kahlo, which is one of the world's most famous artists, had a distinct way of painting. She painted inspired by laughter, love, and tragedy throughout her life.

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• Critical Analysis:

• Viva Frida! shares the story of Frida Kahlo and how she was inspired throughout her life.  This wonderful picture book which includes simple, lyrical words and enchanting illustrations, delights the reader with bilingual phrases that portray the uniqueness of this wonderful artist. 

Cultural markers are well evident throughout the book.  The entire story is both in English and Spanish.  The illustrations display clothes, hairstyles, and items such as “papel picado” decorations, which are authentic to Mexican culture.  Her skin tone and hair color also depict her ethnicity and race.  

I have always loved Frida Kahlo's artwork so to see her story and inspirations in a children's book, made me so happy.  Because of the simple text and incredible illustrations, I think children will enjoy this wonderful book.

• Review Excerpts:

• “Morales artistically distills the essence of the remarkable Frida Kahlo in this esoteric, multigenre picture book.” ―Booklist

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• “*There have been several books for young readers about Frida Kahlo, but none has come close to the emotional aesthetic Morales brings to her subjects . . . an ingenious tour de force.” ―The Horn Book, STARRED REVIEW

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• “This luminescent homage to Frida Kahlo doesn't hew to her artwork's mood but entrances on its own merit . . . Visually radiant.” ―Kirkus Reviews

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• Connections:

• Other books by Yuyi Morales:

• Dreamers

• Niño Wrestles the World

• Bright Star

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• Related books:

• I am Sacagawea ISBN:  978-0525428534

• I am Amelia Earhart ISBN:  978-0803740822

    Title: Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass

Bibliography:  

Medina, M. (2014). Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass. Candlewick Press.

• ISBN:  978-0763671648

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• Summary: 

Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass, by Meg Medina, is a story about Piddy Sanchez, a teenage girl of Latina descent, who finds herself targeted by a bully named Yaqui Delgado at her new high school in Queens, New York.  Piddy learns from a classmate that Yaqui Delgado, a girl she doesn't even know, is after her and wants to "kick her ass." This shocks and terrifies Piddy, as she is simultaneously facing other personal struggles.  Throughout the novel, Piddy experiences a rollercoaster of emotions, from fear and anger to resilience and self-discovery. Sadly, Piddy is indeed beaten up by Yaqui and it is all recorded.  Piddy seeks support from friends, family members, and school staff as she tries to find ways to handle Yaqui's bullying and reclaim her sense of safety.  In the end, Piddy is informed that Yaqui can be expelled but her group of friends cannot, so Piddy is advised to to apply for a transfer to another school, and so she does.  Piddy is finally able to adjust.

• Critical Analysis:

• Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass is a young adult novel that digs into themes like bullying, identity, and resilience.  It touches on topics that are relevant and real for our youth.  The story itself feels very honest.  All the issues that Piddy is facing are common and relatable.    

• This novel certainly included cultural markers.  Piddy's mother and her aunt provide various cultural references throughout the story.  Latin music, food, and language are all infused into the story in a great way that just makes it feel authentic. At the same time, this novel is still relatable to readers of any ethnicity.  The story is about a kid dealing with a bully, and that, unfortunately, is something that youth of any race struggle with in real life. 

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• Ultimately, this novel is a moving and powerful exploration of the impact of bullying on young people's lives. At the same time, it stresses the importance of community, self-acceptance, and standing up against injustice.  This is a must-read for young adults.

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• Review Excerpts:

• A nuanced, heart-wrenching and ultimately empowering story about bullying….Interweaving themes of identity, escapism and body image, Medina takes what could be a didactic morality tale and spins it into something beautiful: a story rich in depth and heart…Far more than just a problem novel, this book sheds light on a serious issue without ever losing sight of its craft.—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Yaqui may think she’s tough, but it’s Piddy and some of the other female characters, namely Piddy’s mother and her mother’s flamboyant best friend Lila, who make more lasting impressions. Medina’s setting stands out as well…Teens will identify with Piddy’s struggle.—The Horn Book (starred review)

The Latino cultural milieu adds a richness and texture that lifts this up above many problem novels. The plot points are dexterously intertwined, and the characters are distinct. A real bonus for those looking for a bullying book for older readers that is not simplistic.—School Library Journal (starred review)

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• Connections:

• Other books by Meg Medina:

• Merci Suárez Changes Gears

• Mango, Abuela, and Me

• The Girl Who Could Silence the Wind

    Related books:

    Know Your Enemy ISBN:  978-2494309180

LSSL 5361 Culture 2 Reviews

 

• Title:  Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman

• Bibliography:  

• Schroeder, A. (2000). Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman. Penguin Young Readers Group.

ISBN: 978-0140561968

• Summary: 

• In Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman, Alan Schroeder tells the story of an eight year old who rebels against her owner’s commands. This was Harriet Tubman, or Minty, and when we first meet her in the story, she is a house slave who would often run and hide when she was called to do something. One day, after spilling a pitcher of cider while serving, the mistress decides she is too clumsy for the housework and sends her to the fields.  While doing work in the fields, Minty's urge to run away and gain freedom grows stronger. Her father teaches her how to survive on her own and in the wild, so one day she can be prepared to run away.  One night, after being severely beaten for letting muskrats free from their traps, Minty has the perfect opportunity for escape but is not successful.  She cries herself to sleep but vows to be free one day.

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• Critical Analysis:

• Alan Schroeder tells an inspiring story of a young Harriet Tubman.  Shroeder opens the story with a message to the readers explaining that while some of the scenes were invented for narrative purposes, the basic facts of the story are true.  Harriet Tubman, or Minty, is portrayed as an intelligent, kind and spunky girl who just wishes to be free.  Her parents worry that she may end up hurt or be separated from them. 

The African American culture is defined in this story through the illustrations and

language used.  The dialogue contains just enough dialect and southern phrases to give a sense of the times and the people involved, both White plantation owners and Black slaves.  The illustrations add to the characters.  Not only do they portray their expressions and actions, but they also show us the physical differences between them.  From the color and texture of their hair, to the clothing and hairstyles of all the characters, the illustrations perfectly capture all of this.  The contrast between the different areas of the house and the clothes worn, show the differences between slaves and master and mistress.  

• Although the story of a young Harriet Tubman is told in this book in a stupendous way, if the reader does not read the author’s note at the back of the book or know the contributions of Harriet Tubman as an adult, the ending would be displeasing. In this book, the author, leads the reader to believe that Harriet will escape and survive, yet she chooses not to leave when the time comes, and instead cries herself to sleep. It pretty much leaves the reader hanging and wondering what might have happened to Minty. Because of this, it is crucial that the reader read the author’s note or that this book be paired with other books that explain the events later in her life.  

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• Review Excerpts:

• *"Rich with melodrama, suspense, pathos, and, of course, a powerful vision of freedom. This exquisitely crafted book resonates well beyond its few pages."— Kirkus Reviews , starred review

"The blend of fact and fiction is occasionally problematic..., but kids will be moved by the picture of secret childhood rebellion in someone who grew up to lead hundreds to freedom."--- Booklist Reviews

• Connections:

• Other books by Alan Schroeder:

    In Her Hands

    Smoky Mountain Rose: An Appalachian Cinderella

    Baby Flo: Florence Mills Lights Up the Stage

    Related books:

    Ida's Witness: The True Story of an Immigrant Girl  ISBN:  978-0985398859

    The Story of Marie Curie: An Inspiring Biography for Young Readers 

ISBN: 978-1647391126

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• Title:   Brown Girl Dreaming

• Bibliography:  

• Woodson, J. (2016). Brown Girl Dreaming. Penguin Young Readers Group.

• ISBN:  978-0147515827

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• Summary: 

• Brown Girl Dreaming is a memoir in verse by Jacqueline Woodson and it covers her childhood, from birth through the start of adolescence.  Each titled poem highlights one particular aspect of Jacqueline’s life. Even though each covers a brief period of time, they  offer a whole picture of what is happening not just in her life but also around her.  The memoir follows her from Ohio to South Carolina to Brooklyn.  One day. Jacqueline is inspired to write a poem about the Black revolution, which her uncle Robert has taught her about.  She then recites this poem out loud to her class and her teacher tells her that she is a writer.  Jacqueline is thrilled about this and she begins to perceive writing.  In her view, it's a way to celebrate all the influences in her life and all the events in her life.  

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• Critical Analysis:

• I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of poetry but decided to give Brown Girl Dreaming a try.  As I read Jacqueline Woodson's reflection of her childhood, I was impressed by her thoughtfulness, authenticity, and transparency.

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• The free verse memoir Brown Girl Dreaming tells of Jacqueline Woodson's childhood, about growing up between Ohio and South Carolina, and eventually moving to New York.  It moves freely between telling a story and relating history.  The targeted audience is middle grade but I believe this memoir could be enjoyed by all ages.  

As for culture markers, there are plenty in this book. Throughout this time period in history, racial tensions are present, and they are also present in the story.  Inequalities and injustices around her become increasingly apparent to her as she grows up, no matter where her family lives.  She describes how they are not allowed to do certain things because white families live around that area.  

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• Overall, Brown Girl Dreaming is an excellent book on its own and as an immensely moving memoir.

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• Review Excerpts:

• * “The writer’s passion for stories and storytelling permeates the memoir, explicitly addressed in her early attempts to write books and implicitly conveyed through her sharp images and poignant observations seen through the eyes of a child. Woodson’s ability to listen and glean meaning from what she hears lead to an astute understanding of her surroundings, friends, and family.”— Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

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• * “Mesmerizing journey through [Woodson’s] early years. . . . Her perspective on the volatile era in which she grew up is thoughtfully expressed in powerfully effective verse. . . . With exquisite metaphorical verse Woodson weaves a patchwork of her life experience . . . that covers readers with a warmth and sensitivity no child should miss. This should be on every library shelf.”—School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

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• * “Woodson cherishes her memories and shares them with a graceful lyricism; her lovingly wrought vignettes of country and city streets will linger long after the page is turned. For every dreaming girl (and boy) with a pencil in hand (or keyboard) and a story to share.”—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

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• Connections:

• Other books by Jacqueline Woodson:

• The Day You Begin

• Each Kindness

• Harbor Me

• The Other Side

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• Related books:

    One Crazy Summer ISBN:  978-0060760908

A Good Kind of Trouble ISBN:  978-0062836694

Inside Out and Back Again ISBN:  978-0061962790

• Title:  Big

• Bibliography:  

• Harrison, V. (2023). Big. Little, Brown.

ISBN:  978-0316353229

• Summary: 

• Big, by Vashti Harrison, is about a girl with a big laugh, big heart and very big dreams.  Adults would tell her she was a big girl, and it was a good thing.  Then, the girl grew and grew and it was no longer good.  When she experiences something awful in the playground, she becomes more aware of her size and how people are reacting to it.  This affects her self-esteem until one day, she decides to not let it get to her and gladly accepts the way she is.   

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• Critical Analysis:

• Big is a simple, yet impactful picture book.  Through beautiful illustrations, Harrison tells a story of  a young Black girl’s desires and demonstrates how words have the ability to empower someone or to cause much suffering.  Throughout the story, Harrison enlarges certain words and phrases that bring even more meaning to the message of this book.

Cultural markers in this story include skin tone and hair texture.  We can clearly see this since the girl is illustrated in shades of brown and pink while everyone else in the book is drawn in a grey-scale.  Furthermore, in the touching author's note, Harrison writes of her hopes that the book will especially speak to all, especially those who are Black girls in big bodies.  

In Big, Harrison encourages us readers to think back on how we treat others. The story sends the beautiful message on how we should not judge or treat others based on their body size.  Harrison’s refined use of color, design and space, make this an outstanding book that is definitely a must read.  

• Review Excerpts:

• * "Bestselling creator Harrison has produced another classic that belongs on every child’s shelf—this is one that will nurture little ones and help them to see the beauty in themselves.... A healing balm with the power to make the world a bit kinder."―Kirkus, starred review

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• * "This emotionally and socially resonant picture book stands out with its exceptional strength, beauty, and grace."―Booklist, starred review

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• * "This book resonates with a potential emotional impact that is immense....This inspiring and highly relatable title could be used with readers of any age to discuss topics of body image and self-love."―School Library Journal, starred review

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• Connections:

• Other books by Vashti Harrison:

• Dream Big, Little One 

• Hair Love

• Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History (Leaders & Dreamers, 1)

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• Related books:

• Walter the White Crayon ISBN:  978-1736105207

• The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes: A Growth Mindset Book for Kids to Boost Confidence, Self-Esteem and Resilience ISBN:  978-1774470381

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    Title:  Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans

Bibliography:  

• Nelson, K. (2011). Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans. HarperCollins.

• ISBN:  978-0061730795

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• Summary: 

• Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans tells the story of the United States from the viewpoint of African Americans.  It tells how the country is formed and how African Americans play a role.  The story incorporates slavery, abolition, the Civil War, the westward migration, suffrage, and civil rights.  It also demonstrates how African American’s gain their freedom and equal rights and how this helps our country to become the all men and women are created equal.

• Critical Analysis:

• Heart and The Story of America and African Americans is an amazing and inspiring book that tells about Black history in America.  It is told through the eyes of a African American narrator, which makes the story yet more impactful.  

The illustrations in this book are just breathtaking.  The paintings cover the emotion and tone of the narrative so skillfully.  They portray what each page of the book tells in such a magnificent manner.  These paintings also emphasize so many cultural markers.  You can clearly observe the skin tones and facial features along with their hair textures and hairstyles.  The text includes so many as well.   

Undoubtedly, Heart and Soul:  The Story of America and African Americans is a great read.  It includes specific contributions and accomplishments of many African American people.  I was familiar with some, while many others were new to me.  
I highly recommend this book. It is one that audiences of all ages can appreciate and enjoy.

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• Review Excerpts:

• The dramatic oil paintings heighten the dignity of this story, whether they are of well-known historical figures, common folk or landscape…This intimate narrative makes the stories accessible to young readers and powerfully conveys how personal this history feels for many African-Americans. — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

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• Nelson…adds to his notable titles with this powerful view of African American history. Illustrated with 44 full-page paintings, this handsome volume is told in the fictionalized, informal voice of an African American senior looking back on her life and remembering what her elders told her. — Booklist (starred review)

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• Provocative and powerful, this book offers a much-needed perspective for individuals of all ages seeking to understand America’s past and present. — School Library Journal (starred review)

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• Nelson effectively creates a voice that is at once singular and representative. A tour de force in the career of an author/artist who continues to outdo himself. — Horn Book (starred review)

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• Connections:

• Other books by Kadir Nelson:

    Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom

    If You Plant a Seed: An Easter And Springtime Book For Kids

    He's Got the Whole World in His Hands

    Related books:

    The History of Juneteenth: A History Book for New Readers ISBN:  978-1685394417

    Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better 

ISBN: 978-0593563229