Camila the Record-Breaking Star

Description: Camila dreams of being a star and, after learning about children who break world records, decides she will do the same--but how? Includes glossary, glossary of Spanish words, activities, and discussion questions.

Brief description: Alicia Salazar is a Mexican American children's book author who has written for blogs, magazines, and education publishers. She was also once an elementary school teacher and a marine biologist. She currently lives in the suburbs of Houston, TX, but is a city girl at heart. When she is not dreaming up new adventures to experience, she is turning her adventures into stories for kids.

Review Quotes: Summary: Camila the Record-Breaking Star Camila the Record-Breaking Star is the first in the Camila the Star series by Alicia Salazar, illustrated by Thias Damiao. In this book, young Camila who has always wanted to be una estrella discovers that one way she can do this is by breaking a world record, but which one? After much thought and many failed tries, she finally finds the perfect thing for her. She's not going to break any previously set records; she'll set hers instead! The Good This is a cute chapter book, much like the Yasmin series by Saadia Faruqi. It's an excellent book for kids who just trying to get into chapter books. At 32 pages, it's pretty much a picture book with just a bit more text and an "older" plot. I loved the illustrations and the sibling dynamics between Camila and her older siblings Andres and Ana as well as Camila's resilience and creativity. If your kids like their book-related activities, then they'll love the two at the end of this book, as well as the glossary of Spanish words used throughout the book. Much like the Sophia Martinez books, this one also has Spanish words highlighted throughout and would be useful if you're trying to teach basic Spanish words and phrases. Overall: Camila the Record-Breaking Star Camila the Record-Breaking Star is an excellent start to a fun chapter book series with a bright, creative heroine who learns the value of being resilient. With highlighted Spanish words and phrases interspersed throughout the story and a useful glossary at the end of the book, this is a great way to help kids learn and remember simple Spanish words. Finally, the easy-to-read text and vivid illustrations will capture the eyes of any child who is new to reading chapter books. I would definitely recommend this to those looking for chapter books for first and second graders.--Afoma "Reading Middle Grade"