The Tortilla Factory
What’s inside...
The Tortilla Factory is a children's book by Gary Paulsen that follows the entire process of making tortillas, from planting corn seeds to enjoying freshly made tortillas. Through engaging text and expressive paintings by Ruth Wright Paulsen, the book offers a lyrical tribute to the Mexican farm worker and celebrates the cycle of life and the beauty of a simple way of life.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think happens at a tortilla factory?
How do you think the corn transforms into a tortilla?
Who are the people involved in making tortillas and what might their jobs be?
Why do you think tortillas are important in the story and in real life?
Can you think of a food that brings your family together like tortillas do in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show interest in your child's responses and encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts.
Relate the tortilla-making process to cooking experiences your family shares to make the story more relatable.
Ask your child to imagine their own factory and what they might produce, fostering creativity and connection to the story.
Discuss the cultural significance of different foods in your family and others, enhancing respect and interest in diversity.
Encourage your child to draw or act out different parts of the tortilla-making process, making the reading experience interactive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Tortilla Factory', the process of making tortillas is depicted as a collaborative effort, involving various people from farmers to factory workers.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working together towards a common goal, applicable in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for cultural heritage
Explanation: The book delves into the traditional methods of tortilla making, which are an integral part of Hispanic culture.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to explore and respect their own family traditions and those of others.
Example Lesson: Understanding the food production process
Explanation: Through vivid storytelling, 'The Tortilla Factory' explains the journey from farm to table, detailing each step in the creation of tortillas.
Real-World Application: This can heighten a child's awareness of where their food comes from, promoting healthier eating choices and respect for farmers.
Example Lesson: The importance of hard work
Explanation: The story illustrates the effort involved in each stage of tortilla production, emphasizing the hard work of the individuals involved.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the value of hard work in achieving results, whether in academics, sports, or any other endeavors.