Just in Case: A Trickster Tale and Spanish Alphabet
Bibliography:
Morales Y. (2008).JUST IN CASE: A TRICKSTER TALE AND SPANISH ALPHABET (First). Roaring Brook Press.
ISBN: 978-1250188496
Plot Summary:
Señor Calavera is a skeleton from Day of the Dead celebrations. Señor Calavera is worried because he can't figure out what to give Grandma Beetle for her birthday. He misunderstands the advice of Zelmiro the Ghost and decides to not just get her one gift, but one gift for every letter of the alphabet, just in case.
Critical Analysis:
In this modern folklore story, the author personifies the character, Señor Calavera, by giving him human-like qualities as he irons a tie and rides a bike. The author adds Spanish words as simple as, “quizas” to show cultural representation in the story. The use of what Señor Calavera packed and how each item is a letter of the alphabet shows a great pattern for kids to follow and look forward to next. The alphabet words are in Spanish followed by an English explanation.
The bright colors of the page really help the pictures stand out. The color palette that was selected matches what Mexican culture truly is. Some of the illustrations are a lot bigger or take the whole page which draws attention to that particular part of the book. Children enjoy picture and entertainment-based books, and this book did that. The book also has a meaningful message at the end that can be directed at any age group.
Review Excerpt(s):
“Richly hued and filled with action, the illustrations capture the tale’s humor and Latin flavor perfectly, leading on to an entirely logical, hilarious and heartwarming surprise at the end. As gifted an artist as she is a storyteller, Morales is in top form here." ―Kirkus Reviews
"Part ghost story and part alphabet book, this trickster tale transcends both. Librarians will want to share it for the beautiful language, the spirited artwork, and the rightness of the ending." ―School Library Journal
Connection:
*Students can work on a cultural representation reflection essay. They can reflect on the characters, setting, and events in the book.
*Excellent social studies lesson on cultural diversity and celebrations.
*Students can make connections to their own cultures and compare and contrast.
Other books that are similar to this genre:
Morales, Yuyi. (2016). Just a Minute: A Trickster Tale and Counting Tale. Chronicle Books. ISBN: 978-0811864831
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