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Reviewed by: Jennifer Costello, Intermediate School Librarian Title: Cantora: Mercedes Sosa, The Voice of Latin America
Author: Melissa Fernandez Nitsche
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Year: 2023 Good for Grades: PK-5 Genre/Type of Book: Biography/Picture Book
Content Warnings, or things that other School Librarians should be aware of: No Recommended for a school library: Yes Reason(s) for choosing the book: I chose this book based on review in the SLJ and it's message. I thought it would be a great addition to my collection and to showcase during Hispanic Heritage Month and Women's History Month. If you were tasked by the publisher with writing a short quote for the back cover of this book, what would it be: A picture book about Latin American singer Mercedes Sosa - a voice that changed the world and her country through her songs and stories.
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Review:
First off, this book has beautiful illustrations and cover art. After reading it, I learned that author designed the cover before the idea of writing the book came to be. Once she designed it, she felt the need to share Mercedes Sosa's story and here we are. This is the true story of how Mercedes Sosa, a young girl growing up in Argentina, discovered her voice and the power it had on people. With her bombo by her side, she grew confidence and wrote folk songs about Argentina - the children living in the streets, tired farmers, unfair pay, etc. She used her music to fight for justice for her people. In 1978 she is arrested for singing songs speaking the truth - she ended up fleeing to Paris, but never gave up. I think the kids will love this story, especially when they learn that it's true - it would pair great with a lesson about making change, standing up for your beliefs, the power of one.
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Find resources for Cantora at Teachingbooks.net
For more information about this book, see the Publishers Website