We’re giving away a copy of Summer of the Mariposas written by Guadalupe Garcia Mcall–our featured novel for September’s book group meeting!! It would be a great book to use in your classroom as part of a unit on Día de los Muertos. Check out the following from School Library Journal:
“. . .Written in the style of magic realism, this is an enchanting look at Mexican mysticism, coupled with the realistic celebration of the true meaning of family. The sisters’ relationships are believably drawn, and the juxtaposition of modern realities and ancient Aztec mythology elucidates the importance of the spiritual side of life in Latin cultures. The plot is well paced, with the illicit nature of the girls’ entry into Mexico adding drama to their adventure. While some readers may find the interweaving of the magical elements somewhat unsettling at first, they are sure to be intrigued by both the unusual qualities of the mythical characters and the sense of adventure that lies behind every twist and turn of the girls’ revelatory journey. As with McCall’s Under the Mesquite (Lee & Low, 2011), this is a peek into Mexican American culture, but its ties to the supernatural add an interesting dimension.”–Nancy Menaldi-Scanlan, The Naples Players, FL
It looks like another interesting read–a great addition to any personal or classroom library! To be entered in the giveaway, just comment on any post on the blog by September 1st. Everyone who comments between July 29th and September 1st will be entered in the drawing. If your name is chosen, we’ll email you ASAP about mailing the book to you.
Don’t forget, we also raffle off a copy of the following month’s featured novel at each book group meeting. So if you’re an Albuquerque local, join us for a chance to win!
Good luck!
Vamos a Leer 
This book by Guadalupe Garcia would definitely support my unit as I plan Día de los Muertos this school year! The students love this unit and our high school looks forward to the ofrenda we design each year for our students loved ones! They also love the mystical element of Día de los Muertos and enjoy learning about Mexican culture and Hispanic tradition around the world and in the United States.
Hi Doris!! So wonderful to hear from you on the blog! I think it would be a great unit to include in a Día de los Muertos unit. We’ll be announcing some upcoming workshops in the next month or so and we’ve got a great one on literacy and art projects for Día de los Muertos that you may be interested in. We’ve got you entered in the giveaway! Hope you’ve enjoyed the summer.
Molly @ Wrapped Up in Books is our giveaway winner this month!! Congratulations! I’ll contact you about getting the book to you!