Sunday, January 28, 2018

MAMA GRACIELA’S SECRET REVIEW


MAMA GRACIELA’S SECRET
by Mayra Calvani
 
I enjoyed Mayra Calvani’s latest picture book, “Mama Graciela’s Secret,” illustrated colorfully by Sheila Fein It’s a pleasing book on many levels. At first I thought the secret in the book was Mama Graciela’s special recipe for bacalaitos fritos. But soon realized the book was about another passion of Mama’s; her love for the many cats attracted to her restaurant for her famous bacalaitos fritos. Then the book became more important and personal to me. 

As a cat and dog lover, I was quite concerned about Mama’s many, many cats. Children will enjoy the story moving from everyday, normal life to super, exaggerated storytelling. How will Mama Graciela handle the problem of oh so many—too many—cats? The solution given in the end of the book is perfect, satisfying, and inspirational. Highly recommended for ages 5 to 7.

Information on author Mayra Calvani is at 
www.MayrasSecretBookcase.com. 

Reviewed by:


Penelope Anne Cole
SLO Night Writers Golden Quill Non-Fiction Finalist 2017
Tri-Valley Writers Conference 2017 Prose Award
San Mateo County Fair Short Story Award 2017
Award Winning Author of Magical Matthew, Magical Mea,
Magical Mea Goes to School, Magical Max and Magical Mickey, and
Magical Max and Magical Mickey’s Big Surprise
In and Out, All ‘Round About – Opposite Friends
What’s for Dinner? and ¿Q vamos a comer?
For Halloween: Ten Little Tricksters and Diez pequeños bromistas
My Grandma and Me Coloring Book
New:  My Grandma’s Pink House
Web/Blogs:  http://www.penelopeannecole.com/