Erandi's Braids

by Antonio Hernandez Madrigal

Book Overview

The yellow dress Erandi wants for her birthday will look beautiful with her long, thick braids. But Mama's fishing net is full of holes, and there isn't enough money to buy both a new net and a birthday dress. The only solution lies with the hair buyers from the city. But Mama's hair isn't nearly as beautiful as Erandi's. Will Erandi have to choose between her birthday present and her braids? This touching tale of love and sacrifice is sprinkled throughout...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0698118855
• ISBN13: 9780698118850
• Release Date: March 2001
• Publisher: Puffin Books
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 8.1" x 9.8"
• Age Range: 3 to 5 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Kindergarten

Customer Reviews

A spellbinder

When I read this book to my second grade class, they sit in quiet awe-- barely breathing, it seems. This story grabs kids, keeps them wondering what will happen and ultimately, moves them. This book makes for a memorable read aloud.

A beautiful story of a child's strength and generosity

I spent two hours in a bookstore reading through books to find nice stories for my daughter. I couldn't believe the number of books that were negative, used words I wouldn't want to read to my child, etc. Then I found Erandi's Braids, and I cried when I read it. I bought it immediately, and read it to my daughter. It took several readings before I could get through it without tears... but she just thought I was such a good reader, because the mother in the book cries too! All that said, it is simply a beautiful story about a child's relationship with her mother, her modest pride, and her generosity despite her poor circumstances. It also gives a feeling for another culture with its use (and explanation) of a few words in Spanish. This is our favorite book.

Very heartwarming tale based on real Mexican history.

This is excellent book written by a Mexican imigrant, Madrigal, who conveys the true meaning of selflessness. The illustrations by the reknowm Tommie DePaulo are beaughtiful and remniscent of the style of a master mexican artist. Very highly recommended.