There have been lots of excellent books hitting the market in recent months. Most recently is the new children's picture book All the Way to Havana (aff) by Margarita Engle. You may remember Margarita's post here on MommyMaestra two years ago for the L4LL Dia Blog Hop.
Margarita is a remarkable Cuban American poet, and currently serves as the national Young People’s Poet Laureate. Many of her works highlight the people and places of her beloved Cuba and her new book is a great example.
All the Way to Havana is the story of a young Cuban boy who is traveling with his family to the big city of Havana to visit his new baby cousin. But first they have to get their family car, "Cara Cara" (a 1954 Chevy 210 series), up and running for the long trip. Once in Havana, the boy is mesmerized by all the beautiful cars, the noise, and the hustle and bustle of a big city. The writing is imaginative and the author's vivid descriptions will appeal to both parents and children.
Mike Curato's illustrations perfectly reflect the vibrant culture and the richness of the architecture found in Havana. (Take a look at the book trailer below!) Best of all, this book lauds the innovative spirit of the Cuban people, who must be resourceful to keep what they have running and in good condition. Curato traveled to Havana to research the book, and he accurately portrays the city and the culture in his illustrations.
But let me tell you why I especially love this book. Not only did my son and I enjoy reading it, but my husband, who rarely looks twice at any book that doesn't have to do with gardening or birds, happened to spot it on the kitchen table and apparently read it. The car on the cover caught his eye and when he flipped open the book and saw all of the other vehicles inside it, he was hooked. And he brought it up to me later, saying that he gave it a "thumbs up." Now, I'm ALWAYS happy when my husband reads to the kids, but it is hard to find children's books that he likes to read to them. So the fact that he enjoyed this book, too, seals it for me. All the Way to Havana is a book the entire family can enjoy. :)
Here's the official book trailer for a sneak peek of the book...
I think this book would be perfect for studies of Cuba, world cultures, family, family vacations/trips, ingenuity, old cars, Hispanic heritage, and more.
You can buy your copy here on Amazon (aff).
The Giveaway
Henry Holt and Company has generously offered to give away a copy of this book to three MommyMaestra readers in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and my Back-to-School Fiesta.
To enter to win, simply use the Rafflecopter below.
¡Buena suerte!
a Rafflecopter giveaway