My Abuelita
on Goodreads (504)
What’s inside...
Winner of a 2010 Pura Belpre Illustrator Honor! My Abuelita is a heartwarming tale of a young boy's grandmother who is a storyteller. With her hair the color of salt and face as crinkled as a dried chile, Abuelita fills her jalopy with fascinating props like a plumed snake, a castle, and a skeleton. Her booming voice and captivating stories make her an extraordinary storyteller, a role that is as important as being a grandmother. The story is a celebration of family, imagination, and the power of storytelling, all woven together with sprinkles of Spanish.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Unnamed Grandchild (Narrator)
Abuelita
Discussion points
What do you think are some of the special things that Abuelita and the boy do together?
How do you feel when you spend time with your grandparents or an older family member?
What are some ways Abuelita shows her love and care in the story?
Can you think of a funny or sweet story about your own family similar to how Abuelita tells her stories?
How do you think the boy helps Abuelita in the book? What can you do to help your family members?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, share a personal story about a grandparent or an elderly family member to create a personal connection.
Pause at key moments in the story to discuss the illustrations and ask how they enhance the storyline or reveal character emotions.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next in the story, fostering imagination and narrative skills.
After reading, relate the book's themes to your child's experiences by discussing similar situations or emotions they have felt.
Use the book as an opportunity to plan a family activity that mirrors an activity Abuelita and the boy enjoy, deepening the connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of cultural diversity
Explanation: The book portrays the loving relationship between a grandmother and her grandchild, showcasing the rich Mexican culture through language, food, and storytelling.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and respect different cultures and traditions, fostering an inclusive attitude towards diverse communities.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonds
Explanation: The story highlights the bond between the grandchild and Abuelita, demonstrating the warmth, love, and wisdom that family relationships can offer.
Real-World Application: Children learn to cherish and maintain strong relationships with family members, understanding the unique role each relative plays in their lives.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: Abuelita uses creative storytelling to engage and educate, sparking the child’s imagination through enchanting tales.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to embrace their own creativity, whether through telling stories, engaging in arts, or imaginative play, enhancing cognitive growth and expression.
Example Lesson: Value of storytelling
Explanation: The book showcases how Abuelita passes on wisdom and cultural heritage through engaging and vibrant stories.
Real-World Application: Promotes the significance of oral traditions and storytelling as a means of education and bonding, urging children to listen and learn from stories of elders.