A Family from Guatemala (Families Around the World)

Julia Waterlow is an experienced writer of children's books and has an expert knowledge of China and its history.

Grade 3-4?This attractive volume describes the daily life of one Guatemalan family of Mayan-Spanish descent. Written at a very basic level, the text begins with brief introductions to both the country and the family. Some of the realities of the Calabays' existence are depicted in a chart that includes the square footage of their home, work week, valued possessions, and income. This chart alone will be revelatory for many middle-class American children. The family lives in a mud-brick home without electricity, plumbing, or indoor-cooking facilities. The manner in which they cook, eat, weave, farm, and perform domestic chores is touched upon. One glaring omission is the absence of any mention of the political strife that has victimized so many Mayans. It seems a misleading oversimplification to inform youngsters only about this family's economic struggle while ignoring their political oppression. Vivid color photography on every page provides a colorful portrait of Guatemalan and Mayan traditions. However, this series entry is too limited in scope to fulfill the information requirements of most reports on countries.?Rosalyn Pierini, San Luis Obispo City-County Library, CA
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