Title: Martina the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folktale
Author: Retold By: Carmen Agra Deedy
Illustrator: Michael Austin
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers
Publication Date: 2007
Genre: Folktale/Fairy Tale/Picture Book
Audience: Gr. 3-5
Awards: 2008 Pura Belpre Medal (honor book)/ ALA/ALSC/REFORMA, National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos
2008 Amelia Bloomer Project Nominee/ ALA Booklist, Feminist Task Force
2008 Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People/ National Council for the Social Studies and the Children's Book Council
Overview: This book, Martina the Beautiful Cockroach, is the Cuban version of the "Martina Folktale." Martina, a 21 day old cockroach, has reached the time in her life where she is ready to get married. Every woman in the family offers Martina something to make her more attractive to the suitors she is going to be choosing from. However, Martina's Abuela offers her advice that will help her choose the right husband. She tells Martina to spill coffee on the suitor's shoes because their reaction, how they lose their temper, and how they speak to her will show her their true colors. Surprisingly to Martina, the coffee tests works and she is able to find her one true love.
Activity: I think there are many great activities that can be done with this book. First, this book could be used as an introduction to a lesson or unit on Folktales. This book could also be used as a cultural lesson where the students are able to learn about different cultures and the stories that come from these different cultures. Next, this book could be used for learning Spanish vocabulary words, since many are used throughout. I really enjoyed this book because it can be used in a wide range of lessons and units, and there are countless activities that can be created around it.
Reviewer's Name: Amanda Scocco
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