If Dominican Were a Color
Author: Sili Recio
Illustrator: Brianna McCarthy
Simon & Schuster
Ages: 4-8
Sili Recio’s description of how her color was used as both a source of joy and encouragement and a weapon to cause pain is both poignant and inspirational. Her message to boys and girls with skin that is “a ribbon of different shades of brown” is especially important under the current climate our country and the world is experiencing.
It is not often that I consider the author’s note an integral part of any story, children’s or other. In this case, it is where I will begin. Sili Recio’s description of how her color was used as both a source of joy and encouragement and a weapon to cause pain is both poignant and inspirational. Her message to boys and girls with skin that is “a ribbon of different shades of brown” is especially important under the current climate our country and the world is experiencing.
When we read the title of the story, we immediately think that the book is going to use colors to describe a tropical country. We soon find that there is a great deal more depth to the descriptions used. Recio incorporates not only colors in her descriptions of her country but also the sounds, flavors, traditions, and relationships that are woven into her memories of childhood, family, and growing up.
Using beautiful illustrations with rich and vibrant colors, McCarthy perfectly compliments the heartfelt message that is conveyed by Recio’s words. There are examples of places, people, traditions, foods, activities, and so much more to enjoy through these visually engaging illustrations.
The story talks to us about childhood experiences, family traditions, changes in family dynamics, situations that shaped both the author’s life and her perception of herself. Tied together with the author’s note at the end, this story is one that can be used to teach about not only a Hispanic culture but also, about the ways in which people are perceived by others because of their culture, skin color, and background.
The lesson goes far beyond the obvious and integrates lessons on loyalty to self, to country, to history. It also makes you long for the opportunity to visit the beautiful country she describes. Written for ages 4-8, this is a truly beautiful and special book.
If Dominican Were a Color (Support an Independent Bookstore) IN SPANISH
If Dominican Were a Color (Hardcover at Amazon)* IN SPANISH
More books for this Age Group can be found here.
My thanks to Simon & Schuster for providing a Copy of this book. The views expressed herein are my own.
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