My First Book of Spanish Words

Around my house, Spanish dictionaries are a treasure. I have one sitting next to my desk and a few scattered here and there for emergency consultations.

Recently, I stumbled upon a new children’s Spanish dictionary at our local library. My First Book of Spanish Words by Katy R. Kudela is full of words in both English and Spanish. It is a nicely laid-out picture book style dictionary with themed photographs such as la familia, la cocina, el jardín and los colores. Items in each picture are then identified with a bubble that includes the word in both English and Spanish. The little bubble also contains a pronunciation guide below each Spanish word.

For the most part this book is engaging and visually stimulating, but the words and concepts presented in this dictionary may be too simple for more advanced children who have more experience with the language. However, it is perfect for families who are beginning their bilingual lessons.

I did find it funny that I was not familiar with some of the Spanish words used. For example, a "worm" is translated as "la lobriz" whereas I’ve always heard it referred to as "un gusano," and "computer" is called "la computadora," but I’ve always heard "el ordenador." (I think this last one, in particular, goes back to those crazy Spaniards refusing to let their language become bastardized by the assimilation of English words.) As has been discussed many a time by many a people (including mis amigas over at el Tiki Tiki and also at Spanglish Baby), the Spanish language reflects the diversity of our Latino cultures, so I have no problem substituting words that I am more familiar with when necessary. As my children grow older, I intend to point out other words that have the same meaning, but for now, to avoid confusion on MY part as their teacher, I like to use the words with which I am most familiar.

I think as parents trying to raise bilingual children, we should try not to get too caught up in the rules and become sticklers. Nuestros niños are paying close attention to us, so I think that the act of being bilingual should be a natural action on our part. Signs of struggle or awkwardness may lead to resistance on their part. What do you think?

At any rate, the LBBC has added a nice collection of children’s Spanish dictionaries to the store. Some are more in-depth than others, so depending on your child’s language level, you have several options to choose from. Check them out here.

Sundays on Fourth Street / Los domingos en la calle Cuatro

Written by Amy Costales
Illustrated by Elaine Jerome

Publisher: Arte Publico Press/ Piñata Books
ISBN 9781558855205
Category Picture Book
Published 30 Nov 2009
Bind Hardcover
Pages 32
Age Group 4-8

This bilingual picture book for children is a tender tribute to time spent with family

“My cousin Pepe combs my hair back just like his, and Aunt Pilar laughs. Then she slides her red lipstick across my lips, but Mamá wipes it off because I’m too young. Mamá puts on her new jeans, and Aunt Pilar polishes her high heels. Uncle Armando finishes washing his old car.” And then, a young girl and her family pile into the shiny car, grown-ups in the front, and kids in the back, and head to Fourth Street.

Sundays spent on Fourth Street are magical, family outings that three young cousins eagerly anticipate. Strolling down Fourth Street with their parents, the children encounter a bustling wonderland filled with music, food, and fun.

The cousins savor sharp bursts of flavor from mangos on a stick covered with lemon, chili and salt; delight in the sight of folk dancers spinning in the plaza; revel in rides and raffles at the church carnival; and yearn for clothes and toys they see in shop windows. While the children may not get the things that so often catch their attention, they can always look forward to more fun together next Sunday on Fourth Street.

Based on real-life visits to Fourth Street in Santa Ana, California, author Amy Costales has written a story that pays homage to a special street and—more importantly—time spent with loved ones. Paired with Elaine Jerome’s colorful illustrations that depict lively street scenes, readers of all ages will enjoy Sundays on Fourth Street.

AMY COSTALES is the author of three other bilingual picture books for children: Abuelita Full of Life / Abuelita llena de vida (Luna Rising, 2007), Hello Night / Hola noche (Luna Rising, 2007), winner of the International Latino Book Award, and Lupe Vargas and Her Super Best Friend / Lupe Vargas y su super mejor amiga (Luna Rising, 2006). She has taught Spanish all over the world and currently lives with her family in Eugene, Oregon.

ELAINE JEROME is the illustrator of The Woodcutter’s Gift / El regalo del leñador (Piñata Books, 2007). She studied at the Academy of Art in San Francisco and currently resides in northern California.

Celebrating Grandparents and Our Heritage

Whether they call them Grandma and Grandpa, Nana and Pop Pop, or Abuelita and Abuelito, kids love their grandparents. By whatever name, grandparents are special to children, always ready with a hug and wonderful stories.

For first- or second-generation immigrant families, grandparents often provide a link to a family's cultural heritage and native language. This year, Colorín Colorado is celebrating that connection with a new bilingual booklist, Every Day Is Grandparents' Day (also available in Spanish). These books about grandparents from around the world celebrate all that grandparents have to offer — and what their grandchildren offer them in return.

One of my favorite new books from the list is Braids / Trencitas by Kathleen Contreras, published by Lectorum. It tells the story of Abuela and Isabela, who tell each other stories while Abuela braids and unbraids Isabela's hair every day. Isabela soon discovers that Abuela has a hard time reading, but she comes up with a wonderful solution to help her grandmother. This heartwarming story brings to life the importance of passing down traditions from one generation to the next, and of sharing our stories with each other.

For more suggestions of related children's books, take a look at the Great Books About Grandparents booklist from Reading Rockets as well.

Speaking of heritage, it's time to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month once again! Be sure to check out the local events in your neighborhood or school, such as library programs, concerts, and festivals. If there aren't any events happening, plan something fun for your child's classroom, the neighbors, or your relatives.

Hispanic Heritage Month brings opportunities for lots of fun, but it also a time to remember the contributions and sacrifices of many generations of Hispanic Americans, and to appreciate what is special in your own family. Now more than ever, in this age of the "achievement gap," young Hispanic Americans need to be reminded that positive role models surround them, from pioneering astronauts and public servants to the loving family members and teachers who support them every day.

Get started with Colorín Colorado's Hispanic Heritage Month Resources (also available in Spanish), which include puzzles, biographies of famous Hispanic men and women, and lots of educational materials.

Also, be sure to check out the recommended websites on the Resource page -- from PBS and the Smithsonian to National Geographic and the History Channel, there are lots of engaging activities for all ages.

And at the end of a busy day, curl up with a book from our Hispanic Heritage booklist (also available in Spanish), such as Super Oscar by Oscar De La Hoya & Mark Shulman or My Name is Celia/Me llamo Celia by Monica Brown. Both of these books offer the opportunity to discuss what it really means to pursue a dream, and to believe in your own future.

If you get a little overwhelmed by it all, remember that you don't have to cram it all in this month - after all, every month is Hispanic Heritage Month!

Giveaway Winner and Felicidades to LBBC contributor, Roxana Soto

First of all, congratulations to Tina for winning a copy of José-Luis Orozco's songbook, Diez Deditos! Pop me an email (admin @latinbabyusa [dot] com)with your shipping address and it will be on its way to you this week...

And I'm sure all of you will join me in saying "Felicidades!" to our contributing blogger, Roxana Soto, on the birth of her son. Nothing is more important than our familia and the education of our children. Many blessings to you both.

Roxana is also the co-founder of Spanglish Baby, a most excellent web site dedicated to bilingual issues. She and her partner, Ana Lilian have also just launched Spanglish Baby Finds! where visitors can read about products on the market for bilingual and Latino families. Spanglish Baby Finds! is also the LBBC's newest sponsor, so please check them out.

September's BOM: Under the Lemon Moon

Under the Lemon Moonby Edith Hope Fine
Illustrated by René King Moreno

The LBBC’s recommendation for September’s Libro del Mes, is Edith Hope Fine’s Under the Lemon Moon.

How could we not include this classic story in our Libro del Mes category?

Under the Lemon Moon is the moving story of a young girl, Rosalinda, who awakens one night to discover an intruder in her garden. Summoning her courage (and her pet chicken, Blanca) Rosalinda creeps outside and frightens away the thief who is stealing her lemons. Days later, when her precious lemon tree begins to wilt, Rosalinda sets out with Blanca to find a cure. The ending will, in fact, steal your heart and those of your children.

With allusions to Latino folklore, the imagery is powerful, but gentle enough for little minds. The story’s lessons of compassion and forgiveness are a wonderful treasure that you can give your children. Sin dudo, this has to be the most beautiful children’s story that I have ever read. And, to be honest, it is impossible for me to make it through to the end without tears splashing from my eyes.

It, therefore, comes as no surprise to learn that this book has received numerous awards, including The 50 Best Children's Books (Parents Magazine), Children's Books Mean Business (Children's Books Council),Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People (NCSS/CBC), Honor Book (Society of School Librarians International), Parents' Choice Silver Honor winner, and the Smithsonian Notable Children's Book. I think it is a shame that this book cannot receive a Pura Belpré Honor Medal for illustration.

Under the Lemon Moon is written in English with Spanish words and phrases sprinkled throughout the text. Their placement adds to the richness of the story and helps to create the mood and rhythm. In addition, Latino parents (and children) may relate to some of the traditions described in the book, like this passage:

"What should I do for my tree, Abuela?"

"It will take time for your tree to heal, m’ija," she said. "I will light a candle for you."

I haven’t done that, thought Rosalinda. Aloud she said, "Gracias, Abuelita." Abuela eased the worries from Rosalinda’s forehead with her warm hand. "The candle will help, Rosalinda," Abuela said quietly. "Perhaps it will summon La Anciana, the Old One. She helps things grow."
Everyone had heard rumors of La Anciana, of her powers for bringing rain and making crops grow strong and tall. "Tell me again, Abuela," said Rosalinda…

René King Moreno’s illustrations are soft and warm. They easily portray life in a small Mexican town, with its emphasis on simplicity and nature. The images are luminous and her attention to detail, lend authenticity to the storyline. She uses textures and motifs to add depth and signal changes.

This book is an excellent bridge for introducing the topic of forgiveness, compassion, sharing, selflessness, helping others, poverty, and family. As a parent, I was appreciative of the fact that this story provides an opportunity to discuss generosity towards those less fortunate.

Edith Fine has a great web page for this book with activities for children. It includes activities for Language Arts, Science, Math and Art. So if you’d like to explore the story more in depth with your children, you can check it out here.

If you would like to buy your own copy of Under the Lemon Moon, 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.