Elena's Story

September 1, 2012
Elena narrates this touching story set in Guatemala, about a girl's longing for education. She lives with her mother and younger siblings in a rural village while the father of the family works far away. Elena attends school and is trying to learn to read in Spanish, but she finds it hard to find time to practice reading when she needs to help her mother with cooking, child care and gardening. Candles are scarce as well, so Elena is frustrated with her lack of time to study her books. She solves her problem by reading out loud to her mischievous younger brother, keeping him occupied and practicing her reading at the same time. Her mother realizes that Elena's reading could help the whole family, so she approves Elena's use of candles for her reading at night. A large trim size shows off the vibrant illustrations with engaging characters and authentic details in clothing and backgrounds, researched by the author in her travels to Guatemala. There are several foreign terms used in the story, and although they are defined in the glossary, it is unclear to the reader whether these terms are Spanish or Mam, Elena's native Mayan language. Useful for students learning about life in other countries, and an entertaining story in its own right. (author's note, glossary) (Picture book. 5-9)

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December 1, 2012

K-Gr 2-Shaw takes readers through the daily activities of a young Guatemalan girl. Elena rises early and dresses in colorful traditional clothing: "The huipil [blouse] is as red as a bursting tomato. The corte [skirt] is blue-black like the beginning of night." Elena has not been able to finish her homework because candles are too expensive; she must watch her younger brother, who finds ways of getting into trouble at every turn; and she is conflicted about handling her numerous chores while trying to keep up in school. Eventually her mother realizes that success in school is worth the price of candles. The author describes the child's worries with empathy and concern that should connect with readers even if theirs are different. While the watercolor illustrations tend to be a bit murky, they are well researched and authentically depict the landscape, clothing, and architecture. There is little on the culture of Guatemala available for young children, and this is a serviceable addition.-Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ

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