Shake It, Morena!: And Other Folklore from Puerto Rico
What’s inside...
An illustrated collection of games, songs, traditions, and stories from Puerto Rico.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the various folktales and songs tell us about Puerto Rican culture and everyday life?
How do the characters in the stories display different values, such as kindness or bravery?
Can you think of a folktale from our own culture that reminds you of one from the book? What are the similarities or differences?
How does the music and rhythm in the songs make you feel? Why do you think music is important in storytelling?
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading the book together, pausing to explore the illustrations and ask your child what they see and think.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite story or character, and ask why they liked them. This helps develop personal connections to the book.
Discuss the moral or lesson of each folktale. Ask your child what they learned and if they think the lesson is important.
Introduce your child to similar folktales from your own cultural background, if applicable, to enhance their understanding and appreciation of the book's themes.
Play some traditional Puerto Rican music before or after reading to set the mood and help bring the stories to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Through vibrant descriptions of Puerto Rican folklore, 'Shake It, Morena!' educates young readers about the island's traditions and customs.
Real-World Application: Children learn to respect and value diverse cultures, enhancing their social awareness and empathy in a multicultural world.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community
Explanation: 'Shake It, Morena!' showcases community gatherings and collective celebrations, emphasizing communal joy and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children understand the significance of participating in community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The book highlights the use of songs, dances, and stories in Puerto Rican traditions, encouraging creative expression.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and express their own creativity through arts and storytelling, aiding in emotional and intellectual development.
Example Lesson: Historical Knowledge
Explanation: By presenting folklore, the book serves as a conduit for historical and cultural knowledge about Puerto Rico.
Real-World Application: Children gain historical insights that can spark interest in learning about other histories and cultures, broadening their educational horizons.
Example Lesson: Joy in Learning
Explanation: The interactive and engaging narrative style makes learning about culture fun and enjoyable for children.
Real-World Application: This approach to learning can increase children’s enthusiasm for educational activities, making them more engaged learners in all subjects.