Tomas and the Library Lady
When a family of migrant farm workers from Texas stops in Iowa to pick corn, Tomas's grandfather, Papa Grande, suggests that he spend part of each day at the public library because it is filled with stories he can read and then bring back to share with the family at night. While Tomas expects to find good books at the library, he doesn't expect to find a new friend--but he does. From the beginning the librarian welcomes him. She shows him where the water fountain is, suggests books he might enjoy, and helps Tomas feel at home whenever he comes to the library. In return, Tomas teaches her some Spanish phrases and she is able to greet Papa Grande in Spanish when Tomas brings him to the library to meet his new friend. Based on an event that occurred in the childhood of national education leader Dr. Tomas Rivera, Pat Mora brings the story to life through excellent characterization and natural-sounding dialogue. Raul Colon's warm earthtone illustrations give a strong sense of action occurring in the past. ©1997 Cooperative Children's Book Center
Illustrated by Raul Colon
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 4-7
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Books and Reading
Families
Farming and Farmers
Grandfathers
Kindness
Libraries and Librarians
Spanish Language
Work and Labor
Diversity subject:
Latine
Publisher:
Alfred A. Knopf
Publish Year: 1997
Pages: 32
ISBN: 0679804013
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Mora