Islandborn

Book: IslandBorn

Author: Junot Diaz 

Illustrator: Leo Espinoza 

Genre: Fiction

Awards: Pura Belpre Honor    

Age Group: Pre-k - 2 

Summary: 

In Lola's school, every kid was from somewhere else, and Lola was from an island. In class, she is given the assignment to draw about the place they are from. The only problem is, Lola left when she was a baby and had no memory of the island. The teacher then suggests that she interview people from the island and draw what they say. She asks her cousins, neighbors, and her Abuela and Lola manages to draw some very animated drawings of the island. However, it isn't until she interviews Mr. Mir that Lola learns that the island wasn't always sunshine- that their was a monster. However, the people of the island stood up to the monster and banished it forever. The next day in class, Lola has a book filled with all the stories she learned of the island and brought the island to life. 

Evaluation and Comments: 

IslandBorn is an inspiring story that teaches us that no matter what happens to us, where we come from will always be a part of us. In this book, Lola was upset that she couldn't remember the island since she left when she was a baby. However, in the end she learns that even though she left the island, the island never left her and it will always be apart of her no matter where she goes.  

Since a classroom consists of so many backgrounds and diversities, this is a great book to have in the classroom because it helps students acknowledge and embrace their roots. It can also bring comfort to those who feel disconnected to their roots and provides that comfort that no matter what, home will always be apart of you. 

Like in the book, you can also have students draw a picture of the country they are from, and like Lola, if they don't remember, interview family and friends who do. They can then share it to the class and learn about other students backgrounds.   

In conclusion, IslandBorn has my seal of approval! 🥇😄