Brown, M., & Pez, R. (2004). My name is Celia: The life of Celia Cruz = Me llamo Celia : La vida de Celia Cruz. Flagstaff, Ariz.: Rising Moon.
Readability lexile: N/A
Summary:
This bilingual book is about Celia Cruz and her life as a singer, dancer, and salsa queen! It takes you through her journey starting off in Cuba and ending up in America. Celia never stopped inspiring people with her love of music.
Evaluation:
The story did not have any noticeable stereotypes and is inspired by a Cuban woman who had a passion. It teaches children to never give up on their dreams, and to always try your best. The illustrations are fun and joyful, which perfectly describes Celia Cruz. They are very bright and engaging.
It is a great story to teach about cultural backgrounds, especially since the story is written in both English in Spanish. Celia Cruz represents people from all over the world. She has a huge leadership role seeing as how she was a leader and not so much a follower during her lifetime, which is why she is such an inspiration to so many Cuban women as well as women form around the world who were able to hear her voice or see her perform.
The book reflects a variety of settings from Cuba to America. There are values being explored instead of preached and there are lesson to be learned. An example is to never give up on your dreams. This story is another wonderful example of power.
Literary Elements:
1. Setting: Cuba; New York; Miami.
2. Onomatopoeia: The sounds such as clap, boom, shake.
3. Simile: "My songs sounded like the waves of the ocean hitting the roof of my mouth ..."
Mini-Lesson:
The lesson I would teach my students is about setting since it is a very important part in Celia Cruz's life. I would ask how her life might have been different if she would have stayed in Cuba rather than if she moved to New York.
I would also like to take the opportunity to explore the Spanish culture and vocabulary. I learned Spanish at a young age and I really enjoyed it.
Target Audience: Grades 1-5
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