Canciones Para Mirar (Songs to Look At)

K-Gr 3-This whimsical collection of previously published poems and song lyrics is a gift to all who enjoy language. Filled with folkloric elements, Walsh's humorous and playful poems explore the world of the adventurous imagination through wordplay and topsy-turvy situations. Children will laugh out loud at the absurd situations, tickling words, and comical characters. The book includes all-time favorites from El reino del reves (The Backwards Kingdom, Alfaguara, 2001), Tut# Maramb (Alfaguara, 2001), Juguemos en el mundo (Let Us Play in the World, Sudamericana,1970), and Cancionero contra el mal de ojo (Songbook Against the Evil Eye, Sudamericana, 1989). Readers will be delighted to meet, among others, Jacinta, the monkey who wants to be queen, the Studious Cow who becomes the wisest citizen in her town, Manuelita the Tortoise, Ofelia the Rat, and Confite the Cat. Many of the songs were created for theatrical representation, hence the title. The colorful, lighthearted cartoon illustrations are fun and refreshing. Teachers and librarians will enjoy sharing the poems and songs, finding them a natural for class plays and group activities. Recommended for bookstores and libraries. [See interview with the author on p. 54 Ed.] Lucia M. Gonz lez, Miami-Dade Public Library