Mora, P. (2013). Tomás and the library lady. Ill. by Colón Raúl. Columbus, O.H.: Zaner-Bloser. ISBN 0-679-80401-3

Plot/ Summary

In Thomas and the Library Lady you have a young boy named Tomas who is originally from Texas but travels to Iowa because his parents are farm workers. Tomas has a passion for stories as he listens to his grandfather tell stories, but have grown old over time. Tomas’ grandfather encourages him to visit the public library where he could learn new stories and read to his family. He builds enough courage and visits the library where he befriends the librarian. She encourages him to read more by checking out books and in return he provides Spanish speaking lessons. Because of her persistence on books for Tomas, Tomas’ passion for reading and stories has excelled and his imagination for the stories he reads has no limits.

Critical Analysis

After reading Tomás and The Library Lady I quickly made a text to self-connection. The characters in the story are very much relatable. I felt I was part of Tomás sitting with Papá Grande listening to stories my grandfather tells us over and over again. At the end of the story you come to realize that this story is based on a true story. I feel we have had someone in our lives that has helped push ourselves to find our passion in life. It may or may not make a huge impact in our lives, but as for Tomás Rivera it did.

The illustrations throughout the book provided a sense of calmness as I read and looked over the artwork. I noticed the color scheme Raul Colon decided to use are warm and subtle colors, makes me think of togetherness, simpler times, and family. The pictures seem to blend in but colors and strokes of lines define objects and characters within the illustrations.

Review excerpt(s)

1998 Skipping Stones Multicultural Book Award

2016 Tomas Rivera Award Mexican American Children’s Book Award

Connections

This book could be read to students then see if they have ever come across someone who has ever had a huge impact on their lives.