by Lulu Delacre (Author) Lulu Delacre (Illustrator)
Junior Library Guild Selection
Two Puerto Rican tree frog siblings learn about science and social studies topics during their adventures on their island home.
In this chapter book series, Rafi and his younger sister, Rosi, explore their surroundings and learn about the traditions, plants, animals, and environment of Puerto Rico. Young readers will enjoy the adventures of these curious siblings and will relate to their special bond as brother and sister. An added plus is the sprinkling of easy Spanish words that add flavor to the stories.
In Rafi and Rosi, Rafi amazes Rosi with the magic he finds everywhere. He can move sand with his magic fingers. He can shoot stars from the sky. He can even find the smallest tree in the forest. Then one day Rafi's pet hermit crab runs away. Now it's Rosi's turn to show that she knows where to look for magic too. Can she find the crab in time for them to watch it shed its shell?
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Gr 1-3—Rafi and Rosi are coquis (tiny tree frogs) who live in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Rafi and Rosi go to visit the El Morro Fort because admission is free for the day. The two froggies enjoy some imaginative play; pretending to be pirates, they find a real pirate treasure and get spooked while exploring an old sentry box. They have a positive sibling relationship and take care of each other. Children can easily relate to them using their imagination. The characters and stories provide a glimpse into the Puerto Rican culture and history. A few Spanish words are sprinkled throughout the three adventures the siblings experience during their visit. The illustrations are cheerful and light. This book is an early fluent reader for students in primary grades. A glossary of Spanish words, locations, and vocabulary that children might not be familiar with is included at the beginning of the book rather than at the end, which helps to prepare readers before they encounter words. The "Did you Know About..." section at the end gives parents and teachers some background knowledge and a brief history of El Morro Fort, the Pirate Cofresi, Pirate Money, and the Haunted Sentry Box Legend. An activity is also included that children can complete just like the characters in the story. VERDICT Children who enjoy Arnold Lobel's "Frog and Toad" series will also enjoy the coquis Rafi and Rosi and their adventures.—Cynthia Molinar, Medio Creek Elementary SWISD, San Antonio
Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.Junior Library Guild Selection
Lulu Delacre is a bilingual author and New York Times Bestselling illustrator of children's books. Winner of several Pura Belpré Award Honors and an Orbis Pictus Honor, Delacre was a juror for the 2003 National Book Awards. A native of Puerto Rico, Delacre lives with her husband in Silver Spring, Maryland. For more information, visit luludelacre.com.