Check It Out - Grandma's Gift

GRANDMA'S GIFT (written and illustrated by Eric Velasquez)

In this memoir illustrated with lush oil paintings, Eric Velasquez tells of the Christmas vacation when he discovered that there was a painting of an Hispanic man in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

Assigned to visit the museum by his teacher, he went with his grandmother beyond El Barrio and into the unfamiliar world of the museum.  Uncomfortable at first, the two were amazed to find the face of Juan de Pareja among the famous paintings.

For a special treat, go online to this link to hear and see Eric Velasquez tell about his visit with his grandmother and read this book aloud.  Better yet, plan a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and search out the painting that inspired Eric Velasquez to pursue a career as a painter.  Recommended for ages 5 through 8.

Winner of the 2011 Pura Belpre Award for best picture book by a Latino or Latina illustrator, and available at the .