Way-Cool Spanish Phrase Book
The Way-Cool Spanish Phrase Book by Jane Wightwick, Wina Gunn, Lila Gaafar, Robert Bowers, and Ana Bremon is full of Spanish translations for kids and young adults who want to learn the basics. Each translation is accompanied by a quirky doodle and pronunciation guide. There are also blurbs on several pages that describe cultural details in Spain. The innovative drawings incorporate fun images such as aliens from outer space and speeding roller coasters. The topics covered in this nonfiction book include sports, clothing, greetings, school subjects, and even astrological signs! Young readers can use this book to practice conversational skills with others to help them become more fluent in Spanish.
When thinking about the ways in which students learn other languages today, I am doubtful of how many children and young adults would check this book out of a library to practice their Spanish. This book was one of my favorites to read when I was first learning Spanish. However, many young people now use apps such as Duolingo to practice languages. Considering this, the Way-Cool Spanish Phrase Book would still make a fun addition to any library because of its interesting format.
Reference
Wightwick, J. (2000) Way-Cool Spanish Phrase Book. Lincolnwood (Chicago), IL: Passport Books.