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Carmen #1
Starring Carmen
Meet Carmen! She LOVES the spotlight and applause. She's an actress, a singer, a dancer—a one-girl sensación! She exhausts her parents with her nightly performances and completely overshadows Eduardo, her adoring little brother. But when Eduardo shows his big sister how much he loves her in a way even Carmen can’t ignore, will Carmen realize that the stage is big enough for two?
Exuberant illustrations by Lorena Alvarez Gómez offer the perfect complement to Anika Denise’s warm, Spanish-sprinkled text in this celebration of theater, family, and imagination.
Exuberant illustrations by Lorena Alvarez Gómez offer the perfect complement to Anika Denise’s warm, Spanish-sprinkled text in this celebration of theater, family, and imagination.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2017
2 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 16, 2018
Feisty Carmen is a bit of a drama queen, and always wants to be the star of the show. A creative young girl who enjoys putting on productions for her family in which she writes, directs, designs the costumes, and stars in the show, it takes her a while to realize that collaborating with her adoring younger brother Eduardo might be fun. But once she does... the results are fabulous!
An entertaining and ultimately heartwarming family story by author Anika Denise is paired with colorful, appealing artwork by illustrator Lorena Alvarez Gómez in Starring Carmen!. This was a solid three stars for me, but I would add an extra half star (if I could) because I enjoyed the artwork so much. Alvarez Gómez' palette is vivid, her figures humorous and endearing, and I appreciated the fact that the family depicted are biracial, but that this is not the focus of either story or illustration. The visuals here reminded me a bit of the work of Brigitte Barrager, who has illustrated such books as Uni the Unicorn . Recommended to anyone looking for fun new picture-books about feisty girls, and how they fit into their families.
An entertaining and ultimately heartwarming family story by author Anika Denise is paired with colorful, appealing artwork by illustrator Lorena Alvarez Gómez in Starring Carmen!. This was a solid three stars for me, but I would add an extra half star (if I could) because I enjoyed the artwork so much. Alvarez Gómez' palette is vivid, her figures humorous and endearing, and I appreciated the fact that the family depicted are biracial, but that this is not the focus of either story or illustration. The visuals here reminded me a bit of the work of Brigitte Barrager, who has illustrated such books as Uni the Unicorn . Recommended to anyone looking for fun new picture-books about feisty girls, and how they fit into their families.
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November 18, 2017You recognize them as soon as they walk into your classroom. There isn't a sign of glitter on them anywhere but they sparkle. It's noticeable in the way they walk, the intonation of their voice as they talk, and in the combinations of colors and patterns on the clothing they wear. They are making a statement with an air of assurance.
They can be five or fifteen, age is not a factor. For them life is most definitely not a dress rehearsal and their world, wherever they are, is a platform for a performance. Starring CARMEN! (Abrams Books for Young Readers, September 12, 2017) written by Anika Denise with illustrations by Lorena Alvarez Gomez is a look at an energetic girl and her equally energetic hermanito (younger brother) Eduardo.
My full recommendation: http://librariansquest.blogspot.com/2...
They can be five or fifteen, age is not a factor. For them life is most definitely not a dress rehearsal and their world, wherever they are, is a platform for a performance. Starring CARMEN! (Abrams Books for Young Readers, September 12, 2017) written by Anika Denise with illustrations by Lorena Alvarez Gomez is a look at an energetic girl and her equally energetic hermanito (younger brother) Eduardo.
My full recommendation: http://librariansquest.blogspot.com/2...
December 11, 2017
For all kids whose personalities are bigger than they are! This lovely book really struck a chord with the drama queen of my childhood, though my heart ultimately went to little brother, Eduardo, who shares my second-sibling, second-in-the-spotlight status. Vibrant illustrations and clever story with relatable characters. Love it!
February 2, 2018
Do you know anyone who has a flare for the dramatic? Perhaps someone who can entertain their family and friends with style? Then you will probably recognize a similar spirit in Carmen. She is "an actress, a singer, a dancer, and a costume designer." Everyone loves her performances - Mom, Dad, and her brother Eduardo are a loyal audience, cheering her on as she presents a new show each night. In fact, Eduardo loves the shows so much, he would love to help out on the stage.
Carmen reminds me of Fancy Nancy with her elaborate costumes - glitter, feathers, and even ninja masks find there way into the wardrobe for her various shows. And there are elaborate sets and "a few surprising twists" of plot. These are not small performances; just one show has "seventeens songs" and "twelve dance numbers." "It's exhausting, but... "That's showbiz!" says Carmen."
The story brims with personality, and the vocabulary is richly descriptive. It would seem impossible for the illustrations to capture all of Carmen's vivacity and amazing skills, but they do. Rich purples, beautiful teals, and vibrant pinks reflect her dazzling personality. Eduardo's wide-eyed young face shines with adoration when he looks at her, while she glances at him out of the corner of her eyes, too busy with her art to stop and give him attention.
Another great aspect of this book is the warm portrayal of the family. The support her parents give Carmen in her shows is wonderful, but it is her brother's admiration and love that really shines through. As her mother points out to Carmen, "He loves you, mija, even when you make him wear a lampshade on his head." And Carmen proves her own love in a delightful way.
Whether you are looking for a picture book of realistic fiction, a family story, or a book that includes Latinx cultural elements, Starring Carmen is a must. As the text says, "Carmen is a one girl SENSACION!"
Carmen reminds me of Fancy Nancy with her elaborate costumes - glitter, feathers, and even ninja masks find there way into the wardrobe for her various shows. And there are elaborate sets and "a few surprising twists" of plot. These are not small performances; just one show has "seventeens songs" and "twelve dance numbers." "It's exhausting, but... "That's showbiz!" says Carmen."
The story brims with personality, and the vocabulary is richly descriptive. It would seem impossible for the illustrations to capture all of Carmen's vivacity and amazing skills, but they do. Rich purples, beautiful teals, and vibrant pinks reflect her dazzling personality. Eduardo's wide-eyed young face shines with adoration when he looks at her, while she glances at him out of the corner of her eyes, too busy with her art to stop and give him attention.
Another great aspect of this book is the warm portrayal of the family. The support her parents give Carmen in her shows is wonderful, but it is her brother's admiration and love that really shines through. As her mother points out to Carmen, "He loves you, mija, even when you make him wear a lampshade on his head." And Carmen proves her own love in a delightful way.
Whether you are looking for a picture book of realistic fiction, a family story, or a book that includes Latinx cultural elements, Starring Carmen is a must. As the text says, "Carmen is a one girl SENSACION!"
August 9, 2019
Carmen is a full blown actress. When I first read this story, I felt like it was too much. Maybe because I am not quite an extrovert like Carmen. I listened to Matthew C. Winner's podcast with the author Anika Aldamuy Denise. http://www.matthewcwinner.com/single-...
As I listened I remembered how I would make up funny little plays in our summer home in Wisconsin. There was no real television (Black and white, 4 channels) and loads of time to just play and create. That made me want to re-read this story and see how I reacted to the story in a second reading.
I love the story. Yes, Carmen is over the top, but she is vibrant and fun and learns several important life lessons.
Look at that, I learned a lesson too. Sometimes you need to get outside your comfort place and see a book in the light of people who are not exactly like you, but maybe you are a little like them.
As I listened I remembered how I would make up funny little plays in our summer home in Wisconsin. There was no real television (Black and white, 4 channels) and loads of time to just play and create. That made me want to re-read this story and see how I reacted to the story in a second reading.
I love the story. Yes, Carmen is over the top, but she is vibrant and fun and learns several important life lessons.
Look at that, I learned a lesson too. Sometimes you need to get outside your comfort place and see a book in the light of people who are not exactly like you, but maybe you are a little like them.
February 14, 2018
Carmen is so talented! Singer, musician, actress, costume and scene designer, Carmen does it all. And, in fact, rather isn't too interested in sharing the stage with her hermanito, her little brother. She makes him a rock for her next performance, then makes him a lamp, so his face can't even be seen. Her parents express weariness with all the show biz, but tell her she has a fan, if she'd just let him show it. Carmen discovers what it's like to sit and have to watch all the action and not participate. So, she and her brother work out a new show where everyone plays a part, even her parents. I LOVE the illustration style in this adorable picture book. I love the POC family and the sprinkling of Spanish. A delightful read for your little show stopper!
December 5, 2017
Carmen is a multi-cultural drama queen with an adorable little brother, Eduardo, who writes his sister fan mail. Carmen's got a spunky dramatic personality and a show business obsession. We really enjoyed the sibling relationship and the kids discussed whether or not Carmen and Eduardo were good siblings and who was the better sibling... they agreed both are pretty good siblings.
There are a few Spanish words sprinkled in.
Kids requested a re-read.
It is best for older preschoolers and elementary students. It may be a tad long for some younger toddlers.
There are a few Spanish words sprinkled in.
Kids requested a re-read.
It is best for older preschoolers and elementary students. It may be a tad long for some younger toddlers.
March 14, 2018
Carmen is the star of all of her shows. She is the writer, producer, artist, actress, singer, dancer, etc. She does it all. When her brother begs her for a part in the show, she always gives him one, but she makes sure to give him a non-speaking part. She employs her parents as her audience.
Although the parents are very supportive of Carmen and her efforts, after a while, the parents need a little break. And, her brother decides he wants to do something different, too. What happens when her brother puts on a show instead? Will Carmen stay in the shadows?
Although the parents are very supportive of Carmen and her efforts, after a while, the parents need a little break. And, her brother decides he wants to do something different, too. What happens when her brother puts on a show instead? Will Carmen stay in the shadows?
May 12, 2017
I was able to read a pre-publication copy of this book and it was awesome. Carmen is a spunky girl with flair for the dramatic. This is such a great book and the art is so beautiful.
My morning book club read the book and these were the comments, "That was cute" "That was adorable" "I like it a lot" "absolutely love it a lot" "#relateable love Carmen" These are the comments from the club. Also these words in the book "Carmen was a dramatic sulker" was followed by "SAME"
My morning book club read the book and these were the comments, "That was cute" "That was adorable" "I like it a lot" "absolutely love it a lot" "#relateable love Carmen" These are the comments from the club. Also these words in the book "Carmen was a dramatic sulker" was followed by "SAME"
February 23, 2023
Starring Carmen is a delightful bedtime picture book. I also love that this book screams of diversity so that's always good. The book is filled with imagination as Carmen battles a hydra with karate. It also shows that some kids can be grumpy without their parent's constant affection, but Carmen's parents show her that her brother was rooting for her the entire time. In the end the two come together to perform a very imaginative rock opera for their parents. The art stye is also modern and very colorful and bright which I believe kids would love.
June 17, 2019
A fun and high-energy story about Carmen, who loves to be the center of attention - and her brother Eduardo, who is feeling left out and outshone - but still finds a way to show Carmen how much he loves her. Spae ship. te, and a piratnish phrases are effortlessly sprinkled throughout and the illustrations are vibrant and imaginative. Kids will be inspired to put on a show - complete with musical numbers, kara
October 14, 2024
The Author Anika Denise, made the book very colorful which matches carmen personality. This is a great book to read, to students of ages of Pre-k to 7 years of age. This brings out how a little latinx girl loves receiving attention. Even her little brother realizes that his sister Carmen, feels great when all eyes on her. Same with children in the classroom, we want to show the children attention; so they will look for it, from the wrong people or the wrong places.
November 17, 2024
I enjoy the artwork for this story. There is so much to engage the imagination in this art. It's all fluffy and pink and full of theatrical fun.
Carmen is one of those that need all eyes on her in the room. So exhausting. It's not enough to have one number, no she needs 18 songs to sing. Still, I do like that she has a change of heart with her brother and their relationship changes. That's nice to see.
It's a cute book and I think kids into theatre will just love it.
Carmen is one of those that need all eyes on her in the room. So exhausting. It's not enough to have one number, no she needs 18 songs to sing. Still, I do like that she has a change of heart with her brother and their relationship changes. That's nice to see.
It's a cute book and I think kids into theatre will just love it.
March 30, 2018
Carmen loved being the star of all her shows - the actress, singer, dancer, set designer and costume designer - with her parents and younger brother as her audience. The problem is Carmen doesn't recognize her brother's need to participate until he shows what a true fan he is.
Amazing illustrations. Some Spanish words included in the dialogue.
Amazing illustrations. Some Spanish words included in the dialogue.
November 13, 2017
10/26/2017 ** My students are going to love the vibrant illustrations and the bits of Spanish that are sprinkled through the story. I love the multi-racial family and the way Carmen grows through the story.
March 12, 2018
Carmen entertains her family with her acting, singing and dancing and her costumes. Fun story about a little girl who is talented and entertaining with her imagination and finally includes her brother in the fun. Fun read aloud and a surprise ending and family story with some Spanish vocabulary.
April 27, 2018
As a Theatre director my heart was so happy to find this book. My daughter and I loved every minute of it! We even used it in our drama class and the students loved having a character to relate to! Amazing book for theatre lovers and well just everyone!
August 28, 2020
How did I not know Anika Denise has more books than “Planting Stories”? Carmen is dramatically delightful, with an extremely relatable sibling situation and supportive family. I seriously need my own copy of this book now!
April 14, 2022
Carmen is a Latinx young girl with a big personality and a little brother who adores her. As we romp through this story with Carmen, she maintains all her big dreams but also learns to share the spotlight. A delightful, fun, energetic book!
September 20, 2017
A perfectly sweet story about the way siblings can look up to and support each other that pulled right at my heart parts.
September 26, 2017
Cute story. I really loved all the colorful illustrations.
September 28, 2017
Anika Denise's story is so much fun to read aloud and full of gorgeous, technicolor illustrations by (my fave) Lorena Alvarez Gomez! 10/10; a perfect gift!
September 29, 2017
a super easy to follow story, completely believable, with wonderful illustrations that make the eye linger! what more could you want?
November 27, 2017
Siblings being nice to each other is my Kryptonite
November 28, 2017
Super cute story of a bit of a drama queen
December 28, 2017
Oh my heavenly plum-colored hurricanes... the pruples and the aquas and the golds in this book make me want to stand up and sing... seventeen songs, 12 dance numbers, and some karate.
January 21, 2018
Super cute story about a big sister who loves the spotlight learning to share it with her biggest fan (her little brother).
September 17, 2018
Too long for very young readers but the art is beautiful!
January 6, 2019
Utterly adorable. A must for shining stars-in-the-making.
June 1, 2020
Cute Bilingual book for kids who love to perform
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews