Copyright Date:
2004
Edition Date:
2004
Illustrator:
Cruz, D. Nina,
Pages:
1 volume (unpaged)
ISBN:
1-558-85407-X
ISBN 13:
978-1-558-85407-9
Dewey:
E
LCCN:
2003051787
Dimensions:
29 cm.
Language:
Spanish
Bilingual:
Yes
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews
Caraballo's rhyming text and Cruz's detailed, full-bleed illustrations convey the warmth of the grandchild/grandparent relationship while also introducing young readers to life in Puerto Rico. The young boy who narrates begins and ends with the declaration that his grandparents are " mi vida " ("my life"), translated into English as "my universe" for rhyming and metrical reasons. In between these bookends he takes readers on a tour of his life with them, playing together in their yard; cooking to prepare for weekend fiestas; walking along the beach or through famous buildings; and watching the cruise ships come into harbor. Their literal wanderings meander through the year, signaled by the appearance of "Christmas" and other seasonal words. The absence of the boy's parents makes this useful for looking at alternative families, though the text is just vague enough to conclude that he might not live with his grandparents full-time. The tight rhyming of the Spanish text, compared to the somewhat awkward and irregular rhyme of the English, tips readers off that the Spanish is the original, but in both languages the familial love and the love of home are apparent. (Picture book. 4-7)
This ode to family depicts the special influence of a young boy's grandparents in his life. His voice rings as he catalogs the various ways his grandparents impact him. Through gentle verse, Caraballo strings the joys of this quiet relationship: throwing parties in the kitchen with delectable desserts, strolling to the museums and historic sites, and sprinting through the spray of a water hose in the backyard. Set in Puerto Rico, the book, too, pays homage to a unique childhood on the island, colored by descriptions of El Morro, the cruise-liners and big freighters in the ocean, and frolicking in the sea with stingrays. The verses sparkle with this island song, flitting from the joys of the seaside to the cool nights under the stars. Caraballo introduces the reader, aged 3 to 7, to a strong grandparent and grandchild relationship. Complemented by vibrant illustrations, this is book to share with a child on a very special day.