Fiesta!

Grade 3-6-- A four-chapter journey that examines Mexico's history and rituals as experienced by the Indians, Spanish, and Mexicans. Chapters on ``Religious Fiestas'' and ``Patriotic Fiestas'' delve into the cultural melting pot, rich with custom and tradition, bringing forth interesting tidbits of folklore and heritage. ``Fiestas Galore'' shares the celebrations in daily life today. The text's wealth of information absorbs readers in a survey of history seldom found in a single volume. A glossary of Spanish words is a bonus, but the ``Further Readings'' list is dated. The index is incomplete; topics implied as significant in the introduction, such as ``parades'' or ``music,'' aren't found in there, nor are masks, or costumes. Attractive, colorful borders surround full-page activities, but the illustrations and diagrams, when they exist at all, are merely decorative and are in no way sufficient to instruct even experienced cooks and crafters. Sparse drawings complement topics covered, but fail to breathe in the life that the subject demands. Behrens's Fiesta! (Childrens, 1986) is more effective in this area because of its photographs. All things considered, for independent readers or as a read-aloud, Silverthorne's book is still an adequate whole-language resource and a good addition to multicultural collections or curricula. --Cynthia Cordes, Onondaga County Public Library, Syracuse, NY
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.