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My faithful readers will recognize Marsha Diane Arnold's name. The author of picture and chapter books, I have featured her several times on my blog, but this is the first time for a bi-lingual book. Her publisher, Lee and Low Books, decided to translate the book thus making it accessible to both English and Spanish speakers.
Galápagos Girl was translated by Adriana Domínguez and beautifully illustrated by Angela Dominguez.
Galápagos Girl was translated by Adriana Domínguez and beautifully illustrated by Angela Dominguez.
This is the life story of biologist Valentina Cruz. Born into a large, but poor family, Valentina grew up playing with and loving the beautiful animals with whom she shared the Floreana island.
Her father taught her that many Galapagos animals were endangered. Valentina's response was to want to help keep them safe.
Although Valentina was reluctant to leave her beloved island, her parents encouraged her to go to school.
When Valentina sailed away from Floreana,
she made a promise to the animals and her islands.
"I will not forget you," she said.
"And I will keep you safe."
When she returned on school holidays, she camped on remote islands to study the birds, insets, reptiles, and mammals.
Now, not only is she a biologist, but Valentina is a nature guide and continues to share her love for the islands and animals with visitors from around the world.
CLASSROOM RESOURCE AND AN AWARD!
The back matter includes why Ms. Arnold decided to write this book, information about the islands, animals, and a detailed bibliography. These additions make this book a great classroom resource for K-3rd grade. Here is a teacher's guide and an activity page for your students.
Gálapagos Girl received a Green prize for sustainable literature.
GIVEAWAY
Interested in this book? Leave me a comment by January 25 to enter the giveaway. PLEASE leave your email address if you are new to my blog. Share on social media for an extra chance to win.
