Lovely Libros: Latino Culture Children's Book Award Winners

 

Every year the Pura Belpré Award is given to a Latino/Latina children's author and illustrator "whose work best portrays, affirms and celebrates the Latino cultural experience." Pura Belpré was the first Latina librarian at the New York Public Library. This prestigious award, established in 1996, is co-sponsored by the Association for Library Services to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), and REFORMA, the National Association to Promote Library and Information Serices to Latinos and Spanish Speakers, an affiliate of the ALA. 

:: 2010 Pura Belpré Award Winners ::

Below are the winners of the 2010 Pura Belpré award along with the book's description written by the Association for Library Services to Children (ALSC). I have not read these books yet, however, I am adding these to our reading wish lists. 

While my children are learning a lot of Spanish here in Spain. I want them to be aware of that Spanish speakers throughout the world have vastly different cultures. I especially want them to be aware of the Latino cultural experience in the USA. I feel as immigrants to Spain, I have a better understanding of how difficult it must be to be an immigrant to the USA. Everytime, I hit a roadblock here because of language or a cultural misunderstanding, I think how hard it must be for an immigrant to my native country. I have a challenging time under a privileged situation and with a working knowledge of the local language. I can only imagine how tough life must be for immigrants with a lot less than I am fortunate to have. It is important for my children to appreciate the sacrifices that immigrants make to improve their families.

2010 Author Award Winner: Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez

 

"Julia Alvarez explores the thin line that separates American citizens and undocumented persons in her brilliantly told novel, Return to Sender. After Tyler’s father is unable to maintain the family farm, he hires undocumented workers, resulting in an interdependent relationship that mirrors current social and political conditions in the United States. Alvarez humanizes a situation by giving a voice to millions of immigrants experiencing similar hardships. This outstanding novel about the solidarity between two children of different cultures will resonate in the hearts of readers of any age." (ALSC)
 

2010 Illustrator Award Winner: Book Fiesta!, written by Pat Mora, illustrated by Rafael López

"Rafael López utilizes vibrant colors and applies magical realism to show that the love of reading is universal. Through a series of fanciful images, the author depicts Latino children inviting children of other cultures into their book fiesta, leading the reader on a visual journey that shows that reading sparks the imagination across all cultures and has the power to unite us. This informational children’s book will also serve as a valuable resource to those planning El día de los niños/El día de los libros in their communities." (ALSC)

:: 2010 Author Honor Books ::

Diego: Bigger Than Life, written by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand, illustrated by David Diaz

"Carmen T. Bernier-Grand weaves through the life of Mexican artist Diego Rivera in “Diego: Bigger Than Life.” A series of chronological poems delve into his controversial life. The poetry resonates with the passion that Rivera had for his art. The words that Bernier-Grand expertly uses to paint a picture of the artist’s life resemble the artistic process Rivera used to create his masterpieces. Bernier-Grand touches on many aspects of Rivera’s life and summarizes it like only another artist can. This book will pique the interest of readers across all ages and introduce them to a true master." (ALSC)

Federico García Lorca, written by Georgina Lázaro, illustrated by Enrique S. Moreiro

 

"Written in Spanish, Georgina Lázaro’s lyrical poetry evokes the spirit and style of the beloved 20thcentury poet and playwright, Federico García Lorca.  Lázaro gives children a close personal experience with classic Spanish literature in a picture book biography.  She uses the cadence and style of Lorca to paint a picture of the artist as a fragile, sensitive young boy who finds his strength in stories, songs, plays and books.  “Federico García Lorca” celebrates the beauty of the Spanish language and the healing power of words." (ALSC) 

:: 2010 Illustrator Honor Books ::

Diego: Bigger Than Life, illustrated by David Diaz, written by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand

"David Diaz captures the essence of the great Mexican muralist, Diego Rivera, through his use of bold colors and stylized “bigger than life” figures.  Diaz’s jewel-toned scenes of Diego’s life enliven the poetic prose of Bernier-Grand.  The illustrator’s art gives youth an aesthetic experience that inspires and connects them with their Latino cultural heritage." (ALSC)

My Abuelita, illustrated by Yuyi Morales, written by Tony Johnston

 

"Yuyi Morales fashions a world with polymer clay, wire, wood, metals and Mexican crafts. This innovative artist juxtaposes rich colors to marry the real and the imaginary, captured in digitally manipulated photos that are worlds unto their own. The grandmother flows through the pages in her robes as flamboyant as the stories that she loves to tell, inspiring her grandson to want to be just like her when he grows old." (ALSC)

Gracias Thanks, illustrated by John Parra, written by Pat Mora

 

"John Parra captures the small pleasures of Latino family life in his nostalgic folk art illustrations. Each page exudes warmth and love expressed through ordinary Latino experiences and evokes a deep sense of gratitude for Latino culture." (ALSC)

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