Folktale - Martina the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folktale

The winning book is awarded by 2008 2008 Pura Belpre Honor Book.

Retold By Carmen Agra Deedy

Illustrated By Michael Austin

Summary:

Martina, the beautiful cockroach waited for a prince to come along and marry her. And her Cuban grandmother, Abeula made a clever advice in helping her granddaughter, Martina. The advice is spilling the coffee on men's feet in which she will know which one who will marry her. Abuela sent the word to the parrot which spread the news. Spilling the coffee on their feet brings many humorous reactions with a nice and sweet surprise at the end of this re-telling, fairy-folktale.

Literary Elements:

In many different personalities, the characters are so alive and humorous. The setting is very creative which is showing the home of each character. The writing is so comic and fun to read through pages. Also, it includes a few words in Spanish, which is so nice to show the diversity. The message tells us how to be patient and wise when they come to choose a new boyfriend/girlfriend. Also, it is about how to know how to choose a better choice.

Critical Literary:

There is no stereotype in this book. The social justice issue addresses in the book on people's personalities can be varying. We cannot judge by people's looks.

Classroom Applications:

In my class, I will discuss about how to see good and bad judgment with students. Also, I will discuss the meaning of patience. Then, I will ask them about Martina's impatience, judgment through her grandmother's wise advice. The question is how do you know that you have good and bad judgment?

Evaluation:

I do like this book because it is so entertained to read! The illustration is amazing to look in every page that connects the folktale beautifully. Also, it designs in 3-D animated animals, which are so colorful and vibrant. Adding Spanish is something new to see. The writing is great. Yet, the theme is kind of awkward for me because this book teaches children to wait for a new love in a time. They may not understand about falling in love. I will not recommend for teachers to read in the class.