Mora, Pat. 2007. Yum! Mmmm! Que Rico! Americas' Sproutings. Ill by Rafael Lopez. New York. Lee and Low Books Inc. ISBN 9781584302711
1. Review of Book:
In Yum! Mmmm! Que Rico!, Pat Mora writes her first book of Haiku poems about the fourteen different types of native foods that were discovered and eaten before the Americas were divided into countries. Each of the poems describes how to prepare the food, as well as the simple pleasures one gets when eating each of the foods. In addition to the poems, on each page Mora includes an informational excerpt that gives facts and background information about the food and where and how it originated. Children of all ages will enjoy the simplicity of the poems. Additionally, learning interesting facts about the foods will engage children and add to the enjoyment of the poems. Each poem uses vivid verbs and sensory language to help children visualize and "taste" the foods described. Rafael Lopez's large, colorful, kid-friendly illustrations add to the imagery of the poems and make the topic of learning about traditional foods fun for all.
2. Classroom/Library Connection.
Before Reading:
Before sharing some of the poems in the book have a class discussion about favorite foods they enjoy. Then share the poem titled, Chocolate.
"Fudge, cake, pie, cookies.
Brown magic melts on your tongue.
Happy, your eyes dance."
After Reading:
Discuss what the children envision when they hear this poem and then share the illustrations. Pass out a yummy chocolate treat to them or share one of your favorite chocolate dessert recipes. Encourage children to then pick their favorite food, dish, or recipe that they enjoy eating or is a tradition in their family. Then have children try their hand at writing their own Haiku about a food or dish, or write about how a particular food became a favorite or a family tradition to eat. If able, have the students bring in the recipe or the writing and create a class collection of stories and recipes to publish and share with all.
3. Review Excerpts/Awards Won:
Delaware Diamonds, 2008-2009 ; Nominee; Grades K-2
Texas Bluebonnet Award 2009-2010 ; Master List; Texas
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