The Corn Grows Ripe (Puffin Newbery Library)
by Dorothy Rhoads
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Book Summary Information
Author: Dorothy RhoadsIllustrator: Jean Charlot
Edition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 1993-06-01
ISBN: 0140363130
Number of pages: 96
Publisher: Puffin Books
Book Reviews of The Corn Grows Ripe (Puffin Newbery Library)
Book Review: Fabulous book on unique culture
Summary: 5 Stars
This is one of the best "cultural studies" type books I have read. Dorothy Rhoads has struck a perfect balance between imparting information and telling a good story.
Plot-wise, the book shares your typical coming of age story. Tigre, the 12 yr old hero, must suddenly take on new responsibilities when his father is injured. We see his journey as he become more mature and responsible. What sets this book apart is the wealth of rich detail regarding the Mayan culture and way of life. We see Tigre and the villagers and the unique routines, festivals and rituals of the Mayan way of life. The importance of the weather and rain in the society may be eye opening to children who are used to running water and sprinklers, with a foreboding drought providing most of the tension in the story.
The characterization in this slim tome is very good. Tigre, his parents, and especially his critical but loving grandmother are all well-crafted. The cultural detail is outstanding, and even better, you get a real sense of how everything related to the community as a whole. The dichotomy in a culture where the Christian church is important enough that all children are named after Saints, but animal sacrifices are still made to the old gods is especially fascinating. It would be a great springboard for discussion on other religious beliefs.
I especially enjoyed a small subplot of Tigre learning more about the world around him through studies with a caring teacher- knowledge that helps him find out the reasons for problems instead of claiming the "will of the gods." I'd have liked more on this subplot. I was also pleased that the author didn't feel the need to stick in some sort of obligatory tragic death to show kids how good they have it now that we have modern medicine. That's not always needed.
The book was written in 1956, so I was a little surprised at the environmental overtones. However, they have the ring of authenticity showing the traditional Mayan culture in tune with nature and the land.
I read this book and immediately read it again. My only complaint is that it is too short. It is a VERY slim book, only about 80 pages. It does have small type, so it's not like many of the "chapter books" aimed at making young children feel like they're reading longer books. This book simply told its story, and ended when it was over.
The book is simple and easy to read, although there are a large number of Mayan and Mexican words (dictionary is provided in the back.) It's appropriate for all ages, although I would guess that around 4th grade would be the target age. As an educator I can immediately think of hands-on activities to go along with the book, especially things involving the all important corn. There is a great deal of discussion of the Mayan gods, so I imagine that Christian families would definitely want to plan on discussion if giving to younger children.
Highly recommended!
Summary of The Corn Grows Ripe (Puffin Newbery Library)
When his father is badly injured in an accident, a young Mayan boy called Tigre wonders who will plant and harvest the corn that they need to survive--and to please the Mayan gods. Twelve-year-old Tigre has never done a man's work before. Now he will have to take his father's place. A Newbery Honor Book.New Experiences Books
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