Chato and the Party Animals

Chato and the Party Animals

By Gary Soto

Illustrated by Susan Guevara

G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2000

26 pages 

Multi-Cultural Literature (Latino)

     Chato loves to party in el barrio (the neighborhood), especially birthday parties, but his friend Novio Boy does not share his enthusiasm. Novio Boy explains he was born in a pound and does not know when his birthday is. Chato then makes it a point to throw a pachanga (festive party) for his friend. He invites all their friends, orders a cake, and even arranges for a DJ. The day arrives and Chato and his friends anxiously await Novio Boy's arrival when Chato realizes...he forgot to tell Novio Boy. Chato and his friends search el barrio but Novio Boy is nowhere to be found. They begin to wonder what happened to him when he happens to show up with some new friends.

         This is one in a collection of books about Chato. Gary Soto provides a wonderful storyline in this book. The characters are amusing and the introduction of Hispanic names, objects, and phrases provides a unique insight into Latino culture. The illustrations were created by Guevara with acrylics on scratchboard. The illustrations were very colorful and for the most part suited the storyline. I must say though that I had a hard time understanding some of the features of the pictures. There were random pictures throughout that seemed to have nothing to do with the story. I will say though that I have seen some other Spanish art that was very similar so perhaps it is authentic to the culture.

         This book is appropriate for grades K-3 and is at about a 3rd grade reading level. With its mini glossary at the front, it is a fun way to introduce Spanish language into your classroom. Some of the words, like pinata, el barrio, and pachanga could make for a fun vocabulary lesson. This story could also be used to compare and contrast celebrations in different cultures as students compare Novio Boy's birthday with some of their own. I would also use this book when discussing friendship and thinking of others.