Summary
This story goes through each month of the year of the main character Maribel. She is a young Filipino girl that just moved to America. She misses many things about her home and talks about her adjustment to the country and its language. Maribel writes letters with her Papa back in the Phillipines and she begins to get used to life in her new home. Each month she experiences new American traditions and her love for her new home continues to grow while she holds the Phillipines close to her heart.
Theme(s):
Family, Traditions,
Personal Response
I thought it was very unique that the author takes you through the seasons and changes Maribel experiences throughout each month of the year. It was really sweet how you can watch Maribel keep her old traditions while experiencing American traditions and holidays. I loved how you can see her appreciation and love for her new home grow while she still holds on to the customs of her culture. The illustrations take you on the journey with Maribel and she goes through the changing seasons.
Teaching Ideas
This book could be a great way to ease the comfort of a new student. Especially if the student was from another country, it could be a reminder that while moving to a new place may be scary, things get better. An activity that could go with this book would be to have students talk about what traditions they practice with their family. This can educate the class about their peers and the many different cultures and customs that exist around them.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 01, Grade 02, Grade 03
