A library for Juana the world of Sor Juana Ines by Pat Mora, Beatriz Vidal, ill. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2002. 

            ISBN: 0375806431

            Annotation: This is the story of Sor Juana Ines from her childhood to her adult life. It tells you how she was educated and how she liked to write. It also tells you how she changed the role of woman.

            Media: the artist work with a magnifying glass and small brushes in watercolor and gouache.

            Rating: 5Q/5P

Subject: English, History, Biography. Grade 7-9

Armando Rivera 7-05-09

Mora, P. (2002). A library for Juana: the world of Sor Juana Inés. Illustrated by Beatriz Vidal. New York: Knopf.  ISBN: 0375806431

5Q/4P

This is the story of one of Mexico’s greatest poets and intellectuals: Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz.  Born in the 17^th century, Juana Inés as a very young child begged to go to school until her parents finally capitulated. Learning to read and write spurred her own creative expression with songs, prose, and poetry, brilliant works that are studied by school children and university students alike.

Media: Watercolor and gouache

Sor Juana Inés was one of Mexico’s greatest poets and intellectuals whose poetry is still studied and respected today. This book shows the development of Juana who loved reading and writing at an early age. Paired with the study of Inés’ poetry, students will also appreciate her determination for an education when many people of her day were illiterate.

Theme: Juana Inés’ story contains themes about personal enrichment and perseverance. It is inspirational because, as a female during the 17th century, her determination to go to school and learn to read and write helped her to become one of Mexico’s greatest authors. Most girls would have been denied an education, but she was lucky enough to have parents that supported her goals and willing to let her learn more than just housekeeping. Overall, the book’s message is that one should strive for something they are passionate about (and certainly, a quality education helps one create and contribute to culture and society) and not to let anyone else prevent one’s fulfillment of a dream.  The more that others support one’s efforts, the more likely one will succeed and achieve those personal dreams. TK 5/2/08

TK 4/29/08