The Wild Book by Margarita Engle –OPTIONAL

Engle, Margarita The Wild Book 144 pgs. Harcourt Children's Books, 2012. $12.74.  (Rating: G)

Fefa has trouble reading and writing, “word-blindness’, in fact she is downright afraid of it. Her mother knows better, and gives Fefa a blank book –called the Wild Book. It takes a bit of time, but Fefa finally gets the courage to start writing. There is danger in her part of Cuba, children are being kidnapped, and held for ransom. Fefa’s Wild Book might be more important than Fefa could have imagined.

I think this would be difficult sell for students to read by choice.  The entire story is told in poetry format, each page with its own title. The lyrical format, cultural references, and time-setting elements require either an advanced student or teacher directed learning. I really like the books by this author, but I think it an adult reader to fully appreciate her skill. I recommend this be used for in-class, teacher directed, reading.

ELEMENTARY–OPTIONAL Reviewer: Stephanie MLS graduate & Author.