A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 163

Picture Book: Abuela’s Weave

Author: Omar S. Castaneda

Illustrator: Enrique O. Sanchez

Summary: Young Esperanza has been working hard to learn her Abuela’s (grandmother’s) weaving skills, but they are both anxious about the upcoming market. Will they have enough finished items and will people purchase them? Abuela is known for her extraordinary patterns, but sadly she is also known for her facial scar. Recently, the kids at the market started a rumor that Abuela was a witch so that some people were afraid to purchase her items. There was also the competition from machine-made products. On market day, Esperanza must carry their goods all on her own while Abuela walks several paces behind her, covered by a black shawl, disguised as a woman in mourning. There is little room to lay out her goods, but once she does, the customers flock to them. All of the pieces are sold. Esperanza and her Abuela go home satisfied and proud, ready to work for next month’s market.

Hanna’s Comments: Besides learning about beautiful Guatemalan textiles, this book is a rich story of hard work, personal endurance, family pride, and cross-generational collaboration. Consider using it as a conversation starter in which you consider what older members of your faith community can teach younger individuals.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Lee & Low Books, 1993

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 5 and up, K and up

# of Pages: 32

Available in Spanish? Yes

Formats other than Book: None at present

PBT Category: Award Winner, Pre 2K

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: abilities, affirmation, ancestors/matriarchs & patriarchs, anxiety/worry, art, awe, beauty, bonds/connections, bravery/courage, bullying/martyrs/persecution/oppression, call/calling/vocation, Central America/South America, challenges, commitment, companionship, creativity/imagination/ingenuity, dependence/interdependence, differences, disabilities/handicaps/limitations, disciples/discipleship, education/learning/school, exile/separation/walls, family, gift/giftedness/talents, God’s nature, God’s presence, grandparents, heritage, hiding/isolation, hope, humility, intolerance, journeys/pilgrimages/migrations/quests, labor/work, legacies, mentors/teachers, money, partners/teamwork, perseverance, poverty, prejudice, preparation/preparing, satisfaction

Scripture Connections: These words that I command shall be on your heart. Teach them diligently to your children (Deuteronomy 6:6-7); that you bear much fruit (John 15:8)

Idea(s) for Application: Consider using this book to inspire mentors in your church to serve children who need inspiring role-models. Encourage them to teach their spiritual practices and tell stories of their personal faith struggles.