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Title: Island Treasures
Subtitle: Growing Up in Cuba
Author: Alma Flor Ada, Antonio Martorell
Narrator: Trini Alvarado
Format: Unabridged
Length: 3 hrs and 47 mins
Language: English
Release date: 12-11-15
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genres: Kids, Ages 8-10
Publisher's Summary:
The author of My Name Is Maria Isabel offers an inspiring look at her childhood in Cuba in this collection that includes "Where the Flame Trees Bloom", "Under the Royal Palms", five new stories, and more. These true autobiographical tales from renowned Hispanic author and educator Alma Flor Ada are filled with family love and traditions, secrets and deep friendships, and a gorgeous, moving picture of the island of Cuba, where Alma Flor grew up.
Told through the eyes of a child, a whole world comes to life in this audio: the blind great-grandmother who never went to school but whose wisdom and generosity overflowed to those around her; the hired hand, Samone, whose love for music overcame all difficulties; the beloved dance teacher who helped sustain young Alma Flor through a miserable year in school; her dear and daring Uncle Medardo, who bravely flew airplanes; and more.
Heartwarming, poignant, and often humorous, this wonderful collection encourages listeners to discover the stories in their own lives - and to celebrate the joys and struggles we all share, no matter where or when we grew up.
Members Reviews:
Alma Flor Ada never ceases to amaze me with her wonderful way of relating her stories ...
The newest book of stories by Dr. Alma Flor Ada never ceases to amaze me with her wonderful way of relating her stories of how she grew up in Cuba. Having the privilege of studying with her at U.S.F. while studying for my doctorate, I eagerly awaited to read this latest collection of stories.
It makes a huge difference when you actually know the author. I always marvel at her ability to relate her stories so others can relive them, too.
Write on, Dr. Ada!
Charming story for children and adults
This is a very charming book, appropriate for children, and fun for adults, too. The author had a very idyllic childhood growing up in Cuba. They had a large house on a property outside of town, rather rural. Her descriptions of the fruit trees made me hungry! This is an easy read and both enjoyable and relaxing.
Four Stars
An easy read and it helped to set the stage for my 15 day trip through Cuba.
A Treasure
I've just started reading this book, but I already love it. There is a very useful glossary with Spanish/Cuban terms.
Ada looks back on her childhood....
Alma Flor Adaâs ISLAND TREASURES: GROWING UP IN CUBA is actually three collections of personal essays in one volume. These three collections consist of WHEN THE FLAME TREES BLOOM; UNDER THE ROYAL PALMS, which was a Pura Belpre Medal winner; and DAYS AT QUINTA SIMONI. Those who know of Adaâs work have probably already read the first two collections, but the third is new to this volume.
The personal essays in this collection average about seven pages each, making them quite readable, even on-the-go. As the title of this volume indicates, each one of the twenty-six essays tells something about Adaâs childhood and youth in Cuba. Readers can also look at family photos and enjoy illustrations by Antonio Matorell. Readers who know little to no Spanish can look up words and phrases in a glossary in the back matter.
I found this book particularly interesting because I began studying Spanish in second grade and continued studying it up to my undergraduate major.