Summary
In a small town in Puerto Rico, a young boy named Carlitos is becoming more and more aware that his family is different than those around him. He lives with his mother, his abuela and their cat. Carlitos wonders about his father but is reassured by his mother that he is across the bay. Carlitos sets out to find his father in Old San Juan. During his journey he meets new people, sees new things and determines the true meaning of love and family.
Theme(s):
Family, Acceptance, Celebration of Differences
Personal Response
I think this book does a wonderful job of capturing the beauty of families that look different than those we might picture in our minds. I think it is important for students to realize they do not need a traditional family to be loved just the same as others. As Carlitos travels around Old San Juan, he experiences the beauty of the town which I thought was depicted well in the illustrations. I think the author did a great job of incorporating important cultural features into the story as well.
Teaching Ideas
I think this book can be involved in a great lesson involving celebrating families and their differences as well as the beautiful culture of Puerto Rico. Students can explore Puerto Rican traditions, food and customs and compare what they learned to Carlitos and his experience in the story as well as others that can be included as read alouds. As a class, a discussion can be held about Carlitos’ family and how they may appear different than others, but also can be quite similar as well.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01, Grade 02
