Picture Book: Gracias Thanks
Author: Pat
Mora
Illustrator: John
Parra
Summary: This book is comprised of
a series of bilingual thanksgiving sentences from a young boy. The sources of his gratitude range from the warmth
of the sun to the color of a ladybug, from money given him by his Abuelita (grandmother) to
his uncle’s guitar music, from warm chocolate syrup on ice cream to his old
pajamas.
Hanna’s Comments: Bilingual texts like this one are scarce, but they are
becoming more available as publisher realize the growing need. Don’t limit use of this book to just
those contexts where Spanish speakers are present. Present both languages as
you read, which will divulge both the beauty of languages and your gratitude for
diversity. If you don’t speak Spanish, find a volunteer to read those sentences
for you as you present this book to a group of children in your religious
community. Encourage your children in their first language, to add to this
listing of thanksgivings. Fortunately, gratitude and God’s gifts of
language have no boundaries!
Publisher & Date of Publication: Lee & Low Books, 2009
Age & Grade Appropriateness: 5 and up, K and up
# of Pages:
32
Available in Spanish? This is a bilingual picture book with both Spanish
and English sentences on each double page spread.
Formats other than Book: Audio CD
PBT Category:
Award Winner, Post 2K
PBT Topics this Book Connects with: abundance/bounty,
attentiveness/observation/seeing, awe, beauty, blessings, celebration/party, creation,
diversity, gladness/happiness, God’s care/providence, God’s nature,
gratitude/thanksgiving, joy, life, manna, pleasing God/the Shema, prayer,
response to God, satisfaction, variety, vision, wisdom, worship
Scripture Connections: I love the place where Your glory abides. (Psalm
26:8); Oh give thanks to the Lord (Psalm 107:1); give thanks in all
circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Idea(s) for Application: Consider teaching your children many translations
of “thanks” after you read this text and then celebrating God’s gift of
language diversity, goodness, providence, and generosity.
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