Mice And Beans by Pam Munoz Ryan

 

Title: Mice and Beans

Author: Pam Munoz Ryan

Illustrations: Joe Cepeda

Publisher: Scholastic Press

ISBN: 9780439183031

 

Review:

Grandma Rosa Maria had one week to prepare rice, beans, enchiladas, a pinata and order a cake for her granddaughters seventh birthday. She had a list and made sure to check it often. The whole family would arrive, and she wanted to make sure there were no mice. Every night she would set traps and every morning the traps would be missing. She thought she was forgetful and decided not to worry about it, she had plenty. Each day as the big event drew closer little things would come up missing. Again, she dismissed it. On the big day her granddaughter and the other children were so happy. They enjoyed the food and the cake. When it was time to crack open the pinata filled with candy Rosa Maria panicked she forgot to fill it or did she?

This hilarious read is filled with delightfully colored illustrations that provides young readers with a peek behind the scenes. As they read, they will learn Spanish and will enjoy the snappy rhyme and rhythm of the words. Parents and teachers can use this tool to teach culture, friendship and family. There is also a delicious surprise on the back page.