Synopsis
Two six-page gatefolds and fresco-like paintings enhance the drama, and the fun, of the strong-willed Frida Mari+a7a's preparations--with her horse, Diablo--for the fiesta, her attempts to please Mama by behaving properly, and her decision concerning a high-stakes race.
From School Library Journal
Grade 2-4-A story set in Old California. Frida Maria's mama wants her to behave like a proper se?orita-by learning to sew, cook, and dance. But all Frida can think about is the upcoming Fiesta and riding her uncle's horse Diablo in the great race. She tries to please her mama, but in several humorous episodes, ends up only exasperating her. When the Fiesta finally arrives, Frida impetuously joins the competition; predictably, she not only wins the race, but also the admiration of everyone. In a touching finale, the woman comes to appreciate her daughter's unconventional talents. The humorous and lively text, full of dialogue and sprinkled with Spanish words, reads smoothly. A glossary with pronunciations is included. Lattimore's vivid, textured illustrations, rendered in watercolor and colored pencil in deep, rich, earth and jewel tones over a hand-applied layer of modeling paste, have a frescolike quality. The variation in layout, from full-page paintings, to smaller framed scenes, to a two-page double foldout, adds visual interest. The artist successfully blends elements from early California Mission architecture with lush garden scenes and domestic interiors with flower-filled baskets, pottery, and kitchen implements to give a real sense of time and place. It is refreshing to see such a strong and independent girl in this satisfying picture book.
Lauren Mayer, New York Public Library
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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