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Marisol McDonald #2
Marisol McDonald and the Clash Bash / Marisol McDonald y la fiesta sin igual
Marisol is turning eight, and it’s time to plan a birthday party that will be fabulous, marvelous, and divine. She also hopes that Abuelita, who lives far away in Peru, will be able to come to the celebration.
At the party store, Marisol can’t decide what kind of party to have. There are so many choices, but everything in the store matches! Nothing seems right for soccer, pirate, princess, unicorn-loving Marisol. Finally she comes up with just the right idea, and when her friends arrive for her Clash Bash birthday, a big surprise awaits. But in a heartwarming turn of events, Marisol gets the biggest surprise of all—a visit from Abuelita via computer.
In this delightful story told in English and Spanish, author Monica Brown and illustrator Sara Palacios once again bring the irrepressible Marisol McDonald to life. With her bright red hair, golden brown skin, mismatched outfits, and endearing individuality, this free-spirited Peruvian-Scottish-American girl is headed straight into the hearts of young readers everywhere.
At the party store, Marisol can’t decide what kind of party to have. There are so many choices, but everything in the store matches! Nothing seems right for soccer, pirate, princess, unicorn-loving Marisol. Finally she comes up with just the right idea, and when her friends arrive for her Clash Bash birthday, a big surprise awaits. But in a heartwarming turn of events, Marisol gets the biggest surprise of all—a visit from Abuelita via computer.
In this delightful story told in English and Spanish, author Monica Brown and illustrator Sara Palacios once again bring the irrepressible Marisol McDonald to life. With her bright red hair, golden brown skin, mismatched outfits, and endearing individuality, this free-spirited Peruvian-Scottish-American girl is headed straight into the hearts of young readers everywhere.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published September 15, 2013
1 person is currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Monica Brown
87 books119 followersMonica Brown, Ph.D. is the author of awardwinning bilingual books for children, including My Name Is Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz/Me llamo Celia: La vida de Celia Cruz (Luna Rising), a recipient of the Américas Award for Children's Literature and a Pura Belpré Honor. Her second picture book, My Name Is Gabriela: The Life of Gabriela Mistral/Me llamo Gabriela: La vida de Gabriela Mistral (Luna Rising) shares the story of the first Latina to win a Nobel Prize.
Monica's books are inspired by her Peruvian-American heritage and desire to share Latino/a stories with children. "I write from a place of deep passion, joy, and commitment to producing the highest possible quality of literature for children. In my biographies, the lives of my subjects are so interesting and transformational that I am simply giving them voice for a young audience. I don't think it is ever too early to introduce children to the concepts of magical realism, social justice, and dreaming big!"
Her other books include Chavela and the Magic Bubble (Clarion), Pelé, King of Soccer/Pelé, el rey del fútbol (Rayo/HarperCollins), My Name is Gabito: The Life of Gabriel Garcia Márquez/Me llamo Gabito: La vida de Gabriel Garcia Márquez (Luna Rising), and the forthcoming Side by Side: The Story of Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez/Lado a lado, La Historia de Dolores Huerta y César Chávez (Rayo/HarperCollins).
Monica Brown is a Professor of English at Northern Arizona University, specializing in U.S. Latino Literature and Multicultural Literature. She also writes and publishes scholarly work with a Latino/a focus, including Gang Nation: Delinquent Citizenship in Puerto Rican and Chicano and Chicana Literature; and numerous scholarly articles and chapters on Latino/a literature and cultural studies. She is a recipient of the prestigious Rockefeller Fellowship on Chicano Cultural Literacies from the Center for Chicano Studies at the University of California. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Flagstaff, Arizona.
To hear Monica Brown on Arizona NPR radio, click here or here. Find out what Monica Brown has to say about children's books and literacy here and here.
Monica's books are inspired by her Peruvian-American heritage and desire to share Latino/a stories with children. "I write from a place of deep passion, joy, and commitment to producing the highest possible quality of literature for children. In my biographies, the lives of my subjects are so interesting and transformational that I am simply giving them voice for a young audience. I don't think it is ever too early to introduce children to the concepts of magical realism, social justice, and dreaming big!"
Her other books include Chavela and the Magic Bubble (Clarion), Pelé, King of Soccer/Pelé, el rey del fútbol (Rayo/HarperCollins), My Name is Gabito: The Life of Gabriel Garcia Márquez/Me llamo Gabito: La vida de Gabriel Garcia Márquez (Luna Rising), and the forthcoming Side by Side: The Story of Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez/Lado a lado, La Historia de Dolores Huerta y César Chávez (Rayo/HarperCollins).
Monica Brown is a Professor of English at Northern Arizona University, specializing in U.S. Latino Literature and Multicultural Literature. She also writes and publishes scholarly work with a Latino/a focus, including Gang Nation: Delinquent Citizenship in Puerto Rican and Chicano and Chicana Literature; and numerous scholarly articles and chapters on Latino/a literature and cultural studies. She is a recipient of the prestigious Rockefeller Fellowship on Chicano Cultural Literacies from the Center for Chicano Studies at the University of California. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Flagstaff, Arizona.
To hear Monica Brown on Arizona NPR radio, click here or here. Find out what Monica Brown has to say about children's books and literacy here and here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 23, 2014
I adore Marisol and all the other clash bashers I meet each day. She is bursting with energy and originality and she shares it with everyone she loves. This is a great book for showcasing multiple topics. You could do originality, diversity, family, and even immigration.
October 19, 2014
Like the first one, another fun round with Marisol. I'm happy to see another book about her. She's a good character and I like the format of the stories.
October 30, 2014
Kirkus review
The confident, exuberant, bicultural-and-proud Marisol McDonald is back in this follow-up to Brown’s introduction to the character, Marisol McDonald Doesn’t Match/Marisol McDonald no combina (2011).
Marisol struggles to pick a theme for her upcoming eighth birthday party. How can she choose among princesses and unicorns and soccer when she loves them all? As her mom gently reminds her, maybe she doesn’t have to! What Marisol really hopes for her birthday is to see her abuela, who lives in Peru and with whom she rarely visits. The story’s contemporary solution to this problem will resonate with many families who are living across great distances. The “unique, different and one-of-a-kind” Marisol McDonald continues to stand out as a character. She is self-assured and caring, without straying into didacticism. Her bicultural identity is a point of pride that imbues her personality. Pura Belpré Honor recipient Palacios’ mixed-media illustrations once again visually express Marisol’s originality. Bits of cut paper add unexpected texture, and the warm tones convey the closeness in Marisol’s family. Domínguez’s Spanish translation is also noteworthy; its emphasis on capturing the spirit of the language over literal words makes this book equally joyful in both English and Spanish.
The confident, exuberant, bicultural-and-proud Marisol McDonald is back in this follow-up to Brown’s introduction to the character, Marisol McDonald Doesn’t Match/Marisol McDonald no combina (2011).
Marisol struggles to pick a theme for her upcoming eighth birthday party. How can she choose among princesses and unicorns and soccer when she loves them all? As her mom gently reminds her, maybe she doesn’t have to! What Marisol really hopes for her birthday is to see her abuela, who lives in Peru and with whom she rarely visits. The story’s contemporary solution to this problem will resonate with many families who are living across great distances. The “unique, different and one-of-a-kind” Marisol McDonald continues to stand out as a character. She is self-assured and caring, without straying into didacticism. Her bicultural identity is a point of pride that imbues her personality. Pura Belpré Honor recipient Palacios’ mixed-media illustrations once again visually express Marisol’s originality. Bits of cut paper add unexpected texture, and the warm tones convey the closeness in Marisol’s family. Domínguez’s Spanish translation is also noteworthy; its emphasis on capturing the spirit of the language over literal words makes this book equally joyful in both English and Spanish.
January 4, 2015
I can safely say that I have never seen a red-haired latina girl before, but I am very much looking forward to seeing her again. In some ways she reminds me of Fancy Nancy, especially in her rather unique dressing choices. I loved the way Marisol used her imagination to create a birthday party that satisfied not only her own interests but those of her friends too. Seriously, the book made me laugh. And the sweet surprise at the end was the perfect touch. I found it refreshing to read a contemporary story about a multiracial child who is comfortable in her own skin. The author's note about what lead her to write the story reinforces the current movement toward greater diversity in children's books, so that other children like Marisol and like the author can read books about themselves. Highly recommended.
March 16, 2015
Review:
This is an “Easy” Spanish Bilingual book, which is about diversity and accepting others as they are. Marisol doesn’t care that her clothes don’t match and when it comes to her 8th birthday party, she doesn’t just want a princess theme or a pirate theme, she wants everything mixed together. So when kids come to her party some are dressed as pirates, princesses, soccer players, etc. She decorates her cake all different colors and tops it with pretzels and green icing. The kids love the party and have so much fun switching outfits and doing all sorts of games; it is so much better than the themed parties they are used to.
Recommendations:
This is a wonderful book for all cultures to read. The illustrations are wonderful and the moral of the story is the best things kids can learn: “it is ok to be different.”
5/5 stars
Reviewed By: Jen T.
This is an “Easy” Spanish Bilingual book, which is about diversity and accepting others as they are. Marisol doesn’t care that her clothes don’t match and when it comes to her 8th birthday party, she doesn’t just want a princess theme or a pirate theme, she wants everything mixed together. So when kids come to her party some are dressed as pirates, princesses, soccer players, etc. She decorates her cake all different colors and tops it with pretzels and green icing. The kids love the party and have so much fun switching outfits and doing all sorts of games; it is so much better than the themed parties they are used to.
Recommendations:
This is a wonderful book for all cultures to read. The illustrations are wonderful and the moral of the story is the best things kids can learn: “it is ok to be different.”
5/5 stars
Reviewed By: Jen T.
May 31, 2016
Marisol is back again, but this time it is her birthday! She goes to the store with her mother to try and decide what kind of birthday party she wants to have, but when she cannot choose just one- she chooses them all! As much fun as her party is, the real fun and excitement begins when her grandmother comes in for a surprise visit.
The illustrations in this picturebook are painted and are very precise and extremely fun. Since Marisol is such a loud and bright young girl, the illustrations should match that- and they did a great job of that.
I think Marisol is such a fun and inspiring character. I really enjoyed the two books I have read about her and I would definitely be interested in looking at and reading more!
The illustrations in this picturebook are painted and are very precise and extremely fun. Since Marisol is such a loud and bright young girl, the illustrations should match that- and they did a great job of that.
I think Marisol is such a fun and inspiring character. I really enjoyed the two books I have read about her and I would definitely be interested in looking at and reading more!
October 15, 2013
Marisol McDonald is comfortable with her own multiracial identity and having a unique personality. Not only does she wear socks and clothing that doesn't match, but she plans a party for her eighth birthday that--GASP!--doesn't have one theme but several. Consequently, her friends show up as a pirate, a princess, a soccer player, and a unicorn, and end up combining parts of their costumes. This bilingual book shows Marisol's self-confidence and her devotion to her grandmother who still lives in Peru. The text and illustrations, made from cut paper, ink, and markers and then enhanced digitally, depict a girl well worth knowing. Happy Birthday, Marisol!
August 8, 2015
Marisol McDonald is a quirky young lady who chooses not to match her clothing because she likes being "unique, different, and one of a kind". She carries this idea over into her everyday thinking as well. She enjoys being different and when it comes to choosing a theme for her birthday party, she doesn't. She chooses all of her favorites. Although the main focus of the story is the party, the references to her distant grandmother will strike a cord with many of the children who choose to read this book. My own Spanish is fairly basic, but I understand the translations are well done and I like the visual layout between the two languages.
November 4, 2016
This was a nice book about being your own person and celebrating differences in others. Marisol's party was lovely and it was a nice message for young kids to discuss.
There was an underlying theme about why Marisol's abuela couldn't come to visit for the party. Marisol saves her allowance and sends it for her to buy a ticket. Instead, she buys a computer to do video calls. This was another sweet story about building relationships with people far away.
My one complaint: While I understand that obtaining a visa is a real problem with which many people deal, I found it difficult to explain to my 4 year olds. It was a clunky, heavy-handed addition to an otherwise sweet picture book.
There was an underlying theme about why Marisol's abuela couldn't come to visit for the party. Marisol saves her allowance and sends it for her to buy a ticket. Instead, she buys a computer to do video calls. This was another sweet story about building relationships with people far away.
My one complaint: While I understand that obtaining a visa is a real problem with which many people deal, I found it difficult to explain to my 4 year olds. It was a clunky, heavy-handed addition to an otherwise sweet picture book.
December 12, 2013
It's Marisol's birthday and her wish is that her beloved Abuelita will be able to visit. She lives in Peru and Marisol sends her money whenever she gets a chance, which Abuelita puts to good use and buys a computer so they can video chat.
Marisol is a great character and I love that in this story her parents are honest and explain what roadblocks prevent Abuelita's visit (i.e. money and visas).
Cut paper, ink, and markers were used to render the illustrations. An author's note and Spanish/English glossary is also included.
Marisol is a great character and I love that in this story her parents are honest and explain what roadblocks prevent Abuelita's visit (i.e. money and visas).
Cut paper, ink, and markers were used to render the illustrations. An author's note and Spanish/English glossary is also included.
August 31, 2015
A very fun book about a pretty cool girl who's found her own way to be comfortable and confident in who she is. I haven't read the first Marisol McDonald book, but I quite liked this one - even if the "no matching EVER" thing does get old after awhile. (I totally would have been down for a pirate-princess-unicorn party when I was eight. Not so much the soccer part, though.)
I definitely liked the surprise at the end - it's good to have a realistic solution to the birthday wish that still leaves everybody satisfied!
I definitely liked the surprise at the end - it's good to have a realistic solution to the birthday wish that still leaves everybody satisfied!
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June 9, 2016This book is about a young girl that is always wearing clashing outfits. She tries to fit in after her teacher points out that she doesn't match but she realizes that she likes herself better when she wears her clashing outfits. She realizes that she likes herself just the way she is.
Illustrations appear to be done in mixed media
I really enjoyed this book because of its message. I also liked the fact that it was in both English and Spanish. I think that students could take away a good lesson from this in being who you are and not trying to please others.
Illustrations appear to be done in mixed media
I really enjoyed this book because of its message. I also liked the fact that it was in both English and Spanish. I think that students could take away a good lesson from this in being who you are and not trying to please others.
June 17, 2016
I read this book to my daughter and we both really enjoyed it. My daughter wanted to read it again. Marisol McDonald is a Peruvian-Scottish American girl who is turning eight. Her friends are all interested in different themes for her birthday party. She comes up with a great multi-themed party that everyone enjoys. She receives the special gift of a Skype connection to her grandmother in Peru. There are important messages in this book about family, self-respect and inclusion. The Marisol McDonald books would be a great addition to any school library.
February 6, 2014
Marisol is turning 8 in fine style, a style of her very own. A strong, confident girl, Marisol wants most of all to see her Abuelita who lives in Peru on her birthday. In a colorful, happy ending, Marisol and her grandmother visit via the Internet, partly funded by money Marisol has sent to help her grandmother come for a visit. A spunky, mismatched character that girls with their own unique styles will surely enjoy.
October 2, 2015
This is a good book about a little girl who marches to the beat of her own drum. Marisol is planning a one-of-a-kind, multi-themed party to celebrate her 8th birthday, and she hopes her Abuelita in Peru will be able to fly in for the celebration. It's great to see a multicultural character, and the bilingual text makes this book very accessible to the kids in my community. But overall I like how the main character embraces her individuality.
December 4, 2016
Marisol McDonald really likes to be unique, which is somthing that everyone should like. This book was fun and follows her on her journey to having the best birthday party. Although this book was fun, there were also serious sides of this book. Her grandma did not live in the United States and her birthday wish was for her to come to her birthday. In the end she had a great birthday. Media: Cut-rendered paper, ink markers, digitally enhanced
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2013
Marisol is turning eight (which rhymes with great) and she decides that one birthday theme simply won't do! Just like herself, her birthday theme becomes truly unique and loved by all her friends. Most importantly her beloved Abuelita, who lives far away in Peru, finds a way to make her birthday even more special and memorable!
March 24, 2015
I did my best to read through the Spanish parts of the book to check my Spanish comprehension. Not bad, and it's always interesting to see how things are translated!
Cute story about Marisol who dances to the beat of her own drum and doesn't worry what others think. Good lesson about being unique and true to yourself.
Cute story about Marisol who dances to the beat of her own drum and doesn't worry what others think. Good lesson about being unique and true to yourself.
April 20, 2015
Monica Brown has a wonderful character here in Marisol McDonald! Colorful, nonconforming, friendly, amusing, and giving. She reminds me a little of a character on TV from back in the 80's. But this little girl has a loving home, family, though spread out across continents. Marisol is a fun character and has a great time with family and friends. Great job Ms. Brown!
July 12, 2016
I don't know how a sweet book about a fierce little girl's birthday party can elicit such an emotional response, but it sure did in me. If you've ever felt the separation from a loved one who lives so so far away, you might need a tissue. I thoroughly enjoyed this book with dueling plot lines (what to theme the birthday party and will abuelita be able to attend?). Love.
March 20, 2017
Marisol McDonald is confident in her individuality. She loves things that don't quite go together...just like her! She knows what she wants for her birthday, but her grandmother may not be able to come all the way from Peru.
She decides to have a clash-bash with her friends because it will be just like her. A fun, bilingual picture book to read and read-aloud.
She decides to have a clash-bash with her friends because it will be just like her. A fun, bilingual picture book to read and read-aloud.
April 1, 2014
The first Marisol McDonald is better, but this second story about that lovably mismatched sweetheart is still nice. The second book carries on the themes of the first pretty solidly, and Abuelita's appearance at the end on webcam is authentic to the limitations of the circumstances.
March 24, 2015
I really like Marisol and I think she throws a great party. I want to read more books about her. The bilinguality of this book seems very natural. The text flows well with the illustrations, at least it seemed so to my English-speaking brain.
December 26, 2013
I've loved this author since I was introduced to her by a student who was thw parent of a multicultural child. Think the books should be available in all classrooms.
October 16, 2014
3.75 Marisol likes to be unique, different and one of a kind and hence so is her birthday part.
January 13, 2016
Dual language - written both in Spanish and English. And paragraphs of it. I actually could get a feel for the other language (Spanish in my case).
April 21, 2015
love the author note that explains the semi autobiographical nature of the main character, love the Peruvian hints in the illustrations, love the mixed race family. Spanish translation flows nicely.
September 9, 2015
Cute book about being yourself.
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November 19, 2015Fun illustrations, cute story. Especially nice for immigrant families whose relatives have trouble getting visas to visit, or anyone with a family member at a distance.
August 15, 2016
bilingual book! I love it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews