The Secret Recipe

June 1, 2016

Gr 1-2-Sofia Martinez is at it again with more zany adventures. In Singing Superstar, she receives a special gift that allows for constant creative expression through song, but it takes her some time to find the perfect audience. In The Secret Recipe, Sofia struggles with paying attention while cooking with her abuela and the finished product doesn't taste quite right. Through every up and down, Sofia's family remains a source of unwavering love and support. The illustrations are bright and cheerful and complement the story lines. Mostly in English, with a sprinkling of Spanish words throughout, the works are well written and provide adequate context clues to assist children in decoding the meaning of unknown words. A glossary of Spanish vocabulary and thought-provoking questions are appended and allow for an extension of the story. VERDICT With broad appeal to beginning readers, these easy to read titles are strong additions to most collections.-Kristen Todd-Wurm, Middle Country Public Library, NY

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2016
Seven-year-old Sofia's enthusiasm can have unexpected results for her Hispanic American family, such as when she won't stop singing (Superstar) or when she mistakes salt for sugar while cooking arroz con leche (Recipe). Smith's color illustrations make Sofia's energy endearing, but the stories are weakened when they are resolved too easily. Spanish phrases peppered liberally throughout (in pink font) are defined in glossaries.

(Copyright 2016 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)