Book Review: The Rainbow Tulip

Module 1

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Mora, Pat. The Rainbow Tulip. New York: Viking, 1999. Illustrated by Elizabeth Sayles. ISBN 0-670-87291-1

2. PLOT SUMMARY

Mora tells the story of Stella, a young girl who is being raised in the United States by parents from Mexico. She struggles with begin different. She speaks English outside of the house, but Spanish inside the house. Her parents do not speak English at all. When the May parade arrives, Stella is outfitted in a rainbow tulip costume, and she feels even more different and self-conscience than she did beforehand. She overcomes her fears and learns that being different is hard, but worth being proud of too.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Mora celebrates diversity with Stella’s story. It not only represents the lives of millions of immigrants from Mexico, but also that of her very mother. Many young children struggle with being diverse and must learn to appreciate and celebrate their culture and background, not hide it. Through Stella’s experience, the reader can see how being different is unique and beautiful.

Sayles illustrations support the text and focus on Stella throughout the story. The illustrations depict the action of the story, but also the emotions of Stella. Through the illustrations, you can see Stella’s happiness, nervousness, awkwardness, pride, and joy. They help to demonstrate that although Stella may look different, she can contribute, assist others, and “fit in” in her own way.  

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS

Multicultural Review: "This is a quiet book that speaks volumes to today's immigrant child."

Book List: “Latino families will identify with Estelita’s close family feelings.” 

Kirkus Reviews: " With warmth and directness, Mora celebrates diversity."

5. CONNECTIONS

*Related Books that celebrate the Mexican Heritage

Mora, Pat. A BIRTHDAY BASKET FOR TIA. 9780689813283

Soto, Gary. TOO MANY TAMALES. 9780698114128

*Begin celebrating El dia de los ninos/El dia de los libros by reading Pat Mora’s Book Fiesta! Celebrate Children’s Day/Book Day; Celebremos El dia de los ninos/El dia de los libros to your students.

*Celebrate El dia de los ninos/El dia de los libros on April 30^th. Prepare by reading the books on the book list.

*Have students partner with a fellow students of a different ethnicity. Have them compare and contrast their culture, traditions, and unique characteristics that make them special.