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4.28 AVERAGE
4.28 AVERAGE
cute book for kids that deals with some deeper subjects
Assigned reading for MLIS 7421: Multicultural Youth Literature.
I don't read a lot of MG contemporary, and especially not books that are on the younger end of the MG age range, but I was assigned to read this one for my class. I probably never would've thought to pick it up otherwise, but I'm so glad I read it, as it was absolutely adorable. Cilla's narrative is hilarious in the way that only the zaniest 8-year-olds can be, and her family and friends are lovable, yet flawed and surprisingly complex characters. The illustrations are precious, and all in all, this was a delightful read.
Underneath the cuteness and humor, there are also some very important discussions, such as the fact that Cilla is constantly being asked "what" she is as a biracial child; she establishes the fact that it hurts her feelings to be prodded and questioned because of her features, which is something that I think not only will biracial children understand, but will also help children who are not biracial empathize with their friends and hopefully avoid asking these same uncomfortable, prying questions.
I don't read a lot of MG contemporary, and especially not books that are on the younger end of the MG age range, but I was assigned to read this one for my class. I probably never would've thought to pick it up otherwise, but I'm so glad I read it, as it was absolutely adorable. Cilla's narrative is hilarious in the way that only the zaniest 8-year-olds can be, and her family and friends are lovable, yet flawed and surprisingly complex characters. The illustrations are precious, and all in all, this was a delightful read.
Underneath the cuteness and humor, there are also some very important discussions, such as the fact that Cilla is constantly being asked "what" she is as a biracial child; she establishes the fact that it hurts her feelings to be prodded and questioned because of her features, which is something that I think not only will biracial children understand, but will also help children who are not biracial empathize with their friends and hopefully avoid asking these same uncomfortable, prying questions.
LOVED this book! Cilla is poised to join the ranks of Junie B. Jones and Ramona. Loved her story, her spunk and her realness. Great for talking about race and prejudice with primary kids as Cilla is half-Chinese and half-white and faces ignorance and racism ("what are you?" "Where are you from") and sees how being part of two cultures can be tough for her family.
Recommended for 1st-3rd for reading aloud. 3rd for solo reading
Recommended for 1st-3rd for reading aloud. 3rd for solo reading
Wonderful middle-grade story, realistic treatment of a child dealing with an impending sibling and recognizing some issues in her extended-family dynamics. all with a remarkably clear, consistent voice.
Super delightful early chapter book! Delves into lots of good issues for 7-10 year olds, especially mixed kids trying to find identity
This was such a cute book!
CONS OF FUTURE AUTHOR EXTRAORDINAIRE
None that I can think of.
PROS OF FUTURE AUTHOR EXTRAORDINAIRE
How much she hated The Blob!
How she wanted to be an author.
All the cute stories.
Alien Face!
Loving both sides of her family.
Unicorns stopping monsters in the closet.
How hungry it made me...
OVERALL
I really loved the book, and I just realized I still don't remember when I read it... Ignore the dates below! They're wrong!
CONS OF FUTURE AUTHOR EXTRAORDINAIRE
None that I can think of.
PROS OF FUTURE AUTHOR EXTRAORDINAIRE
How much she hated The Blob!
How she wanted to be an author.
All the cute stories.
Alien Face!
Loving both sides of her family.
Unicorns stopping monsters in the closet.
How hungry it made me...
OVERALL
I really loved the book, and I just realized I still don't remember when I read it... Ignore the dates below! They're wrong!
Cilla is one of my favorite recent middle grade protagonists because she is so personally relatable. My sister-in-law is like Cilla — and her author. Except her father's family speaks Mandarin. My niece and nephew have the further balancing act of Chinese, Jewish, American and Canadian culture.
http://pussreboots.com/blog/2019/comments_07/cilla_lee_jenkins_1.html
http://pussreboots.com/blog/2019/comments_07/cilla_lee_jenkins_1.html
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Content Warnings
Minor: Racism
This book is as joyful to read as the picture of Cilla on the cover.