Just in Case: A Trickster Tale and Spanish Alphabet Book
#2 in Señor Calavera Series
on Goodreads (884)
What’s inside...
Three-Time Pura Belpré Winner Yuyi Morales takes readers on a new adventure with Señor Calvera, the skeleton from Day of the Dead celebrations. Worried about what to give Grandma Beetle for her birthday, Señor Calvera, misunderstanding the advice of Zelmiro the Ghost, decides not to give just one gift, but a gift for every letter of the alphabet. From an accordion to a mustache and tickles, he prepares a series of presents. In the end, he realizes that the best gift of all is the joy of being with friends. Morales’s vibrant art and incorporation of folklore themes make this heartwarming tale a companion to her award-winning book 'Just a Minute'. 'Just In Case' is recognized as a 2009 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year, the winner of the 2009 Pura Belpré Medal for Illustration and a Pura Belpré Honor Book for Narrative. The book includes English text with Spanish vocabulary.
Discussion points
What do you think Señor Calavera was planning for Grandma Beetle’s birthday? How would you plan a surprise?
Why do you think Señor Calavera decided to stay at Grandma Beetle's instead of leaving? Have you ever changed a decision based on someone's actions?
How did the different items Señor Calavera picked up for the birthday party represent different letters of the alphabet? Can you think of other items that start with the same letters?
What does this story teach us about kindness and friendship? How do you show kindness to your friends?
What were some of your favorite Spanish words in the book? Why did those words stand out to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on the character’s decisions and actions, fostering critical thinking about motives and consequences.
Discuss the importance and value of cultural diversity, as presented through the integration of Spanish language and cultural elements in the story.
Ask your child to relate the story to their own experiences, such as times they’ve helped prepare for a family event or learned something new about another culture.
Create a fun learning environment by practicing Spanish alphabet and words together, using the book as a guide.
Read with expressive voices for each character to make the reading experience more immersive and engaging for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The book introduces the Spanish language and Hispanic cultural elements through a vivid narrative featuring the trickster, Señor Calavera. Children learn Spanish words alongside the engaging story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by showing interest and respect towards different cultures and languages they encounter in school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Señor Calavera encounters various challenges that he must solve creatively to reach his goal. This demonstrates the value of thinking outside the box and using intelligence to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach problems in their daily lives with creativity and persistence, whether it's figuring out a puzzle or resolving a conflict with a peer.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Persistence
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Señor Calavera remains determined to complete his journey, teaching children the importance of perseverance in achieving one’s objectives.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to stay dedicated to their educational tasks or personal goals, even when they face difficulties.
Example Lesson: Learning through Play
Explanation: Señor Calavera’s engaging and playful approach to gathering gifts for Grandma Beetle makes learning a fun and integral part of the narrative.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to blend learning with play, which can improve their cognitive abilities and make educational activities more enjoyable.