By Diane Gonzales Bertrand
Illustrations by Wendy Martin
Publisher: Piñata Books – Arte Público Press, Houston, Texas
Due to a major storm, a classroom has been rearranged. It quickly becomes apparent that the books have been removed due to water damage. The children enter the room and are quickly disappointed that there are no books to be had. The teacher quickly assesses the situation and creates The Story Circle – El círculo de cuentos. See, no books are needed!
The author has used this scenario to instill a great teaching moment for everyone. The teacher in the story immediately shows the children that books are not always necessary and that stories are within us all. The children run wild with imagination and their stories and creative juices begin to flow. They are unstoppable.
The way the author has crafted the story is appealing to a young audience and also gives the reader insight into endless imagination. Because the illustrations are colorful, they capture the reader’s attention immediately. The verbiage used for this younger audience is just right as there is not too much reading as found in other children’s books. The author and the illustrator have allowed the pictures to help carry the story. The children are shown to be coming from diverse backgrounds, which makes the book even better. What a great way to connect ALL children to a story. It is this type of diversity in books that will help young readers become avid readers in the future.
An added feature is the book is that it is bilingual, written in English and Spanish. This a great tool in a parental or academic setting as it creates another teaching moment for all involved. A great book for a young audience to get their innovative juices flowing.
Source: Book was provided by author for review. It was reviewed by Corina Martinez Chaudhry.
