I actually really enjoyed this book, although I did have to put it down a few times because Skyla made me so angry. I think that this book is a perfect representation of diversity in children's literature; it not only talks about Latino culture, but it also touches on physical disabilities that Owen has, Naomi's brother. Owen was by far my favorite character in this book. He had such a positive attitude that was almost contagious and there were many times where his responses and words made me actually smile. He is a great role model for children with disabilities, having a positive outlook on life despite the fact that he is a "FLK," as the doctors called him. The book also portrayed him as being extremely intelligent which is also breaking the misconception that people with disabilities aren't as smart as people without them.
I loved the use of Spanish language in this book, especially when they were all actually in Mexico. It added a reality and authenticity to the book. The last part of the book when they were in Mexico was rich with description of the area around them, and the use of the Spanish language gave the reader a sense as to what it is like to live in this part of Mexico.
Overall I thought that this book was a wonderful story with a very positive portrayal of the closeness of family and the Latino culture, and I would definitely include in my classroom library.
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It's kind of funny that you bring up the fact that Skyla made you so angry. That is what I wrote my questioning the text paper on. I have also read Courtney's blog and she wrote about the same thing. I see a pattern starting to occur. Owen was definitely my favorite character in the book by far. There were many parts in the book where I got so angry at Skyla I had to stop reading it. I just don't understand how a mother could have no maternal instinct for her own flesh and blood, her own son. She didn't just not accept him, she was embarrassed of him. Through it all, Owen was able to smile. That was why he was my favorite character!
I also was upset about Skyla, she was just horrible. She is obviously at a maturity level that it below her children, and that it pretty sad and speaks miles for Gram's ability to raise Naomi and Owen.
Also, I agree with the representation of so many different cultures with in the book- it could really be related to many students and could be used in many ways in the classroom. It mixed language, along with issues that are very relevant to many students now a days. It also brings about a lot of issues or topics that can be used in tying together other subject areas (geography, spanish, language arts, civics, etc). That being said, it is also very important to know your class and students, because this book could be too much for some students depending on their family situations. However, I will be keeping this book in mind for use in my classroom.
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