Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Hidden Gems: “Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez,” by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales



Feliz Martes everyone! 
It is another day here in the little blue house, better known as La Casa Azul Bookstore, and as always we will begin this week by reviewing another great children’s book. 
This week we will be reviewing “Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez,” by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales in honor of Cesar Chavez Day.




For those that know of Cesar Chavez, it is difficult to think of the man without thinking of the role he played in the American labor movement and his iconic phrase: ¡Si se puede! In the book “Harvesting Hope” Kathleen Krull lets children get a glimpse at a man who comes from humble beginnings and becomes indignant with the conditions he and fellow farm workers face. Rather than giving up or inciting riots, Chavez organizes and leads the famous Delano grape strike. 
Children learn the power of activism, organizing and most importantly how much can be achieved if one tries, no matter the odds. What distinguishes this book from other Cesar Chavez books is not only Krull simple yet elegant writing but more importantly the artwork created by the well-known illustrator Yuyi Morales.

As a fan of Yuyi I am always impressed by her ability to truly capture the essence of what is being said on each page. In “Harvesting Hope” she creates a rolling landscape, reminiscent of the fields Cesar Chavez and other farm workers worked as well infuses each picture with colors and lines that make them irresistible to look at. If you are looking for a book to teach children about Cesar Chavez, about the labor movement or even just about the power and history of activism this is a great addition to your library.



Think this is a great book?
Make sure to keep an eye for it and other great finds in our children’s section.

And if you are in East Harlem this upcoming weekend, join us for 
 ¡Si se puede! Family Day celebrating Cesar Chavez & Dolores Huerta
Saturday, March 29, 11:00am - 1:00 pm

- Galia Sandy, Schools Program Coordinator

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