Saturday, June 21, 2014

Adelita by Tomie dePaola



dePaola, T. (2002). Adelita. New York, New York: G. P. Putnam’s Sons.

Summary:
 Adelita is a Mexican version of the classic Cinderella story.  The Cinderella in this story is named Adelita and she is a humble maiden who is orphaned and then forced to work as a servant to her stepmother and two stepsisters.  Adelita asks to come to the fiesta, but she is told she is not allowed to attend such an event.  Adelita is helped by her nanny, Esperanza, who previously was banished from the family home by her stepmother..  Esperanza helps Adelita get ready for the ball by showing Adelita her mother's trunk.  The trunk contains a beautiful dress, and Adelita wears that dress to the ball.  Esperanza helps Adelita style her hair and sends her off in a cart she borrowed.  Adelita dances with Javier at the fiesta, but no one at the fiesta knows who the mysterious maiden is.  When Javier goes off in search for the maiden, he recognizes her with the help of her dress and rebozo.  They marry and live happily ever after.  Adelita incorporates various elements throughout the tale indicative of Latino values such as strong family ties, respect for elders, and personal characteristics.  The food, clothing, and setting displayed in the illustrations; and the use of the Spanish language are evidence of Latino culture. The text in Adelita incorporates Spanish words throughout the story.  At the end of the book, a list translations is provided.

Awards:
  • None known for this book (will update if I learn of any).
  • Author Tomie dePaola has received numerous awards for other books including Caldecott Honor, Newbery Honor, and the New Hampshire Governor's Arts Award of Living Treasure.
Resources:
Meet Tomie dePaola:

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