Bibliography
Mora, Pat. 1992. A birthday basket for Tia. Ill. by Cecily Lang. New York: Simon & Schuster. ISBN 9780027674002
Plot summary
Cecilia and her Tia do so much together! They drink tea, play ball, read books and even grow flowers for the kitchen window. Cecilia is excited that it's her Aunt's 90th birthday and wants to give her a special present. Thinking of all the things they like to do together, Cecilia creates a special basket filled with precious memories.
Critical analysis
This book explores the special relationship between a young girl and her older relative. Students will enjoy seeing the love of a family and how they can share special moments together. Mora uses Spanish phrases intermediately in a fun manner which add to the story for both English and Spanish speakers.
Although the illustrations are bright and cheerful, Cecilia looks about 8 years old, although I believe the author intended for her to be around 5 years old. I felt that the language of Cecilia and her appearance didn't match, therefore, removing me somewhat from the story. I would add this book to a collection for its theme; love of family, sharing special moments and coming together to celebrate an event.
Review excerpt(s)
"Vibrant, detailed cut-paper illustrations portray family warmth and individuality with verve and panache". -- School Library Journal
"Exemplifies the best of recent multicultural publishing". -- The Horn Book
Connections
- Have student put their special objects into a basket and explain why it's special.
- Do the things that Cecilia and Tia like to do, for example, have a tea party, read a book or plant a seed to watch a flower grow.
- Think about and plan a surprise party. Have children think of all the details needed to throw a the party.
- Read other books by Pat Mora or on similar topics.
- Dorros, Arthur. Abuela. ISBN 978-0140562255
- Morris, Ann. Families. ISBN 978-0688171988
- Numeroff, Laura. What Aunts do best/What Uncles do best. ISBN 978-0689848254
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