The Yellow Handkerchief
By Monica Encarnacion,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
A heartfelt self-journey celebrates Latino family, heritage.
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What's the Story?
In THE YELLOW HANDKERCHIEF, the main character, a young girl, encounters feelings of embarrassment when she compares herself to her white friend Becca. Subconsciously she blames her Mexican abuela, disliking the yellow handkerchief she wears, "my abuela wears an old yellow handkerchief that her grandmother gave to her" as she "scrubs the mud off our patio on her hands and knees." The main character shares increasingly frustrated versions of "I despise the yellow handkerchief," often wishing her family was more like Becca's and had money for takeout or would buy chickens at the store "like everyone else." But when Abuela has to move away for health reasons and leaves the yellow handkerchief behind, the heartache of missing her suddenly changes everything. The little girl grows to realize just how truly special her grandmother is and learns to appreciate the special bond they share. The author's note at the end of the book shares Higuera's personal experiences of feeling different and her own admiration for her grandmother's strength and brilliance.
Is It Any Good?
This heartfelt picture book is a loving tribute to the author's own childhood and her grandmother, celebrating their connection. The Yellow Handkerchief weaves in rich cultural elements and highlights the significance of heritage and intergenerational bonds. Abuela serves as a loving and wise role model, highlighting the power of storytelling in preserving memories and traditions. This story celebrates working-class Latino families and their unique stories through relatable brown-skinned characters depicted in vibrant illustrations. Cynthia Alonso's artwork beautifully complements the narrative, making this a delightful read for kids and families.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the family in The Yellow Handkerchief. How is your family different or the same?
Can you relate to this story? Was there ever a time that you felt different? How did you come to terms with being different?
What role does your grandmother play in your family? What types of things do you enjoy doing with your grandmother? What do you admire most about your grandmother?
What makes Abuela strong and resilient? How does the young girl in the story demonstrate curiosity and courage? Why are these all important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author: Donna Barba Higuera
- Illustrator: Cynthia Alonso
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Courage , Curiosity , Humility , Integrity
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
- Publication date: March 21, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 8
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: October 31, 2023
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