Shake It, Morena! And Other Folktales from Puerto Rico

Product Description: Carmen T. Bernier-Grand’s inspiring free verse and David Diaz’s vivid paintings capture the defining moments and emotions of Rivera’s tumultuous life, including his stormy relationship with artist Frida Kahlo and his passion for his art. Rivera’s energy, physique, love for women, and work were all “bigger than life.” A biography, chronology, glossary, sources, notes, and famous quotations are included.

In twenty-six original, free-verse poems the author depicts the thoughts, feelings, and life events of Mexican self-portraitist Frida Kahlo. The poems are accompanied by twenty-four full-color reproductions of Kahlo’s paintings. Substantial background materials include a biographical sketch, chronology, and glossary.

“Set in Puerto Rico in 1961, this story features Teresa Giraux and her best friend, Ana, who are looking forward to their fourth-grade teacher’s wedding and the Ponce junior queen competition — until Teresa’s pride and temper fracture their friendship. A socially ambitious seamstress, Teresa’s mother has never invited Ana on family outings because Ana is not only poorer, she’s also darker. Aided by one of her wealthy clients, Teresa’s mother enrolls Teresa in an exclusive academy. Then it is she and Teresa who feel the sting of discrimination.” — Booklist