May's Libro del Mes: Señor Cat's Romance

Señor Cat’s Romance
And Other Favorite Stories from Latin America
Retold by Lucía M. González
Illustrated by Lulu Delacre

The LBBC’s recommendation for February’s Libro del Mes, is Lucía González’s Señor Cat’s Romance.

Señor Cat’s Romance is not new to the market, however, it was an instant classic when it came out in 1997. One of the first of its kind, the book presents six different stories that have been found in various versions throughout Latin America. In the forward, Lucía mentions that she first heard these stories as a child in Cuba, and was later thrilled to discover during conversations with friends from all over Latin America that they knew the same tales, though perhaps with slightly different twists.

Latino parents may recognize the familiar themes found in the Little Half-Chick (Medio-Pollito), where a spoiled and bossy little chick goes around ignoring the pleas of his neighbors, the water, fire, and wind, only to regret his actions when the time comes that he needs their help!

And so many of you have heard, I am sure, the stories of Juan Bobo, a popular character whose foolishness is only outweighed by his luck! There are so many different stories centered around Bobo, that many children’s books have been written about him. So many, in fact, that the LBBC has added a new category to our on-line shop full of books just about him!

I must also mention the story of Martina, la cucarachita, who sets out to find a husband. It is the tale of Cucarachita Martina's hunt for a husband and the disaster that strikes after she finds him (don't worry, it has a happy ending.) Again, this is another story with multiple versions, but it doesn’t matter which one you grew up with, her story continues to be a romantic tragedy that captivates us all.

Señor Cat’s Romance is written in English with Spanish words embedded in the text. In addition, Lucía adds a little note at the end of each story describing its origin and some personal thoughts (which I think is a lovely touch,) as well as a glossary.

But, I think that perhaps my favorite story is the one after which the book is named. Señor Cat’s Romance is so well written and a hoot to read. Here’s a little snippet:

"The very next day, in a church by the bay,
Sir Cat and his true love were wed.
They served nougats and sweets,
Spanish wines, and fine meats,
Oh, their guests were most sumptuously fed!

"Let me sing of my love to the stars up above!"
sang Sir Cat from the roof where he’d climbed.
Oh, the joy that he felt made his happy heart melt –
But perhaps he took leave of his mind…."

Lulu Delacre’s illustrations are absolutely beautiful, of course, and precise. Seriously, anyone who can make a cockroach look beautiful, MUST be talented! And if you pay attention at the end of the story of Juan Bobo, you’ll even be treated to a most yummy recipe for Arroz con Pollo that Lulu carefully added to her illustrations.

Overall, a most delightful book that will be enjoyed by children and parents alike. It would be a great addition to any Latino family library.

If you would like to buy your own copy of Señor Cat’s Romance, please click here. Or you can follow the link in our sidebar to the LBBC’s on-line store. We have both new and gently used copies available.