Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome

Sarai Gonzalez #1

by Sarai González, Monica Brown, Christine Almeda

The first book in a brand-new illustrated chapter book series inspired by the life of 11-year-old viral video star and social activist Sarai Gonzalez.

Sarai Gonzalez is AWESOME. Fourth grader Sarai Gonzalez can do anything. She can bake, dance, and run her own cupcake business. But when Sarai's grandparents are forced to move, even Sarai's not sure what to do. So she hatches a super-awesome plan with her younger sisters and cousin to buy back the house. But houses are more expensive than she ever thought, her sisters won't listen, and she's running out of time. Will Sarai find a way to save the day?

Inspired by the life of viral video sensation and social activist Sarai Gonzalez with the help of award-winning children's book author Monica Brown.

Genres: Middle Grade, Realistic Fiction, Latinx, Family, Chapter Books, Childrens, Fiction

112 pages, Paperback

First published September 11, 2018

About the author

Sarai Gonzalez became an overnight sensation after appearing in Bomba Estéreo’s, “Soy Yo,” a music video about embracing yourself and loving your flaws. The video garnered over 30 million views and The New York Times called Sarai a Latina icon. Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome is the first book in her new chapter book series inspired by her life.

Reviews

[Jacqueline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartwarming story of a spunky girl and her quest to save her grandparent's home. Sarai's upbeat attitude made me smile.

[Allyson Bogie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarai is an awesome Latinx girl who lives in New Jersey. One of her parents is from Costa Rica, and the other from Peru. She is close with her family, is confident, and loves school and reading.
I’m so excited about this series and I highly recommend her books (and her amazing performance in Bomba Estereo’s music video “Soy Yo.”)

[Jo-ann Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

@kidlitexchange #partner
Thank you to @kidlitexchange for an early review copy of this book. All opinions are my own. This is a very cute story about a determined young lady named Sarai Gonzalez. When she finds out that the house her Tata and Mama Rosi live in is up for sale, she does everything she can to try to save their home. She can’t imagine her grandparents and cousins not living close to her! She and her family sell cupcakes and lemonade, and she and her cousin enter a dance competition to try to win money to buy the house. Even though things don’t work out as planned, there is a happy ending!
I liked how Sarai woke up every morning looking at her “I Am Awesome” sign to remind herself she was always ok. I also enjoyed how Sarai talked about her family’s cultural backgrounds- her mom is from Peru and her dad is from Costa Rica. I loved how close the family was, and how everyone came together to help her grandparents! This is a cute story and I recommend it especially for grades 2-4.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute. I would recommend to 2nd graders and up looking for realistic fiction. Appealing cover and layout.

[Angelica M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspired by the life of an 11 year old viral video star and social activist, Saraí Gonzalez is an impressive child! Along with her co-author, Monica Brown, they tell an entertaining story about her close-knit family based on true events from Saraí’s life. Saraí’s dad is from Costa Rica and her mom from Perú. As a 4th grader, she demonstrates that children can do anything. When Saraí finds out her Tata and Mama Rosi are being forced to move she does everything in her power to help her grandparents and her cousins so they don’t move away. An inspirational story of hope, grit, and determination, Saraí exemplifies the true meaning of family. An excellent example for children and role model for diverse families. Saraí and Monica display how actions might not have desired outcomes but how important a support system is. My favorite part was showing my students the video "Soy Yo" after we were done reading it. They were able to connect to Saraí even more and I found it impactful. A new classroom favorite!

[Paul Hankins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm reviewing the ARC of this title which means that I am not seeing all of the final artwork for this book but what I do see here is a celebration of culture and of family. Our narrator walks the reader through locations and terms that may be unfamiliar to readers including the pronunciation of her name which provides unique rhyming opportunities for her depending on who is using her name. There is a celebration of extended family and the contribution of each to the whole that is noteworthy here. Reading into the elementary and upper elementary is not where I live professionally.

I might be outside of my lane here, but what I DO like about this book is its sense of inclusion--even to the reader--to clarify what it means to be an immigrant and what it means to be an American (a point Sarai clarifies early in the book to include every way that her mother, her father, and her ARE "American." References to Celia Cruz (Monica Brown also brings us the picture book, MY NAME IS CELIA) reminds me that it was not from a book that I learned about this cultural icon, but through her appearances on Sesame Street when I was a child. It makes me glad to see her get a mention within this book.

References to popular music, food, and family celebrations are all of part of what make this book a succinct look into the life of a person who may be, live, and express hopes and dreams in a way that is altogether different and yet the same.

[Cindy Mitchell *Kiss the Book* · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome by Sarai Gonzalez and Monica Brown, illustrated by Christine Almeda. 106 pgs. CHAPTER BOOK. Scholastic, 2018. $6.

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Fourth-grader Sarai Gonzalez is half Peruvian, half Costa Rican, and wholly American. She's also unstoppable after having started her own cupcake business and learned how to dance. Now she has turned her attention to saving her grandparents' house, which is being sold out from under them. But houses are expensive; how will Sarai ever afford one, even if it's for her own family?

This is an adorable and inspiring story. I love Sarai's fun and diverse family, which mirrors so many of my students' own families. Unfortunately, the plot itself feels a bit slow, with a lot of telling instead of showing, as well as many details -- and even entire scenes -- that do not add to the story but feel a bit like padding instead. Because of this, I fear many children might have some difficulty getting into the story. That said, I look forward to seeing what the real Sarai Gonzalez does with her life, and I do rather hope one of those things is writing.

Reviewed by Sydney G., K-6 Library Media Specialist
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...

[Jayme Carruthers · Rating 4 out of 5]

@kidlitexchange #partner

Thank you to the #KidLitExchange network for the review copy of Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome. All opinions are my own.

Sarai is a 10 year old girl with big dreams. Every day she wakes up and reads the poster on her wall that says "You Are Awesome". And she is! She's only 10, but she has her own business, Sarai's Sweets, where she makes and sells cupcakes.

When Sarai's grandparents are forced to sell their house, Sarai makes it a mission for herself (along with her sisters and cousins) to do everything they can to raise money to buy the house. Along the way, Sarai learns a very important lesson about the real meaning of "awesome".

I think the coolest part about this book is that one of the authors is 11 years old. It's really Sarai Gonzalez! This book is the first one in a series that she wants to write about her life, which is AWESOME. I've seen plenty of 11 year old writings. Yikes! But this is great.

This book is perfect for about 2nd grade. It would make for a great read aloud or small group reading lesson.

I hope Sarai really does continue to write. This first book comes out Tuesday (September 11th)!

#books #bookstagram #bibliophilebesties #reader #reviewer #ireadtoo #teacherreads #ARC #newrelease #earlygrades #IGreads

[michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the #KidLitExchange for the review copy of this book which will be published 9/11/18. All opinions are my own

Sarai Gonzalez wakes up every morning to a poster reminding her that she is awesome, a pretty great way to start the day. Sarai is a bright girl with an entrepreneurial mind and a strong sense of self. One of the most important things in her life, however, is her family. So when she discovers that her grandparents’ rental home is being sold, she thinks that she can save the day.

Sarai, along with her sisters and cousins, try to raise funds for Tata and Mama Rosi’s house by selling cupcakes, having a lemonade/chicha morada stand, and attempting to win a dance contest. Through it all, the family has fun together and works as a team.

What was most impressive, and great for kids to know, is that this book was co-written and inspired by the life of 13 year old Sarai Gonzalez.

This is a good book that is soon to be a series for kids in grades 2-5. It is a relatively easy read, but has some great lessons in it.

[Akoss · Rating 4 out of 5]

@Kidlitexchange #partner - I received a copy of this book from the Kidlitexchange network in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Releases 9/11/18

Sarai Gonzalez lives her life to the fullest and believes she can do anything she sets her mind on doing. When she receives news of her grandparents losing their house she comes up with a plan she’s certain will make a difference, except nothing goes as planned.

I love the positive vibe oozing from every page of this book. Life can get hard and unfair but as long as you’re surrounded with people who care about you, you will get through those hard moments and come out stronger.

The story moves fast but the author packs a lot of emotion and action in few words. By the time you get to the end you will want to be friends with Sarai and get to know every member of her very supportive and tight-knit family. And I will be surprised if you don’t find yourself smiling.
I recommend you request it from your local Library or order it from your favorite book store.

[Shan Salter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome
by Sarai Gonzalez and Monica Brown

On sale date 9/11/18

Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This super-cute chapter book for grades 2-5 takes us on an adventure with Sarai as she tries to raise money to buy back the house her grandparents have lived in for over twenty years.

The story is fast-paced with easy to read sentences. Sarai is a unique and energetic character brimming with positivity and her sisters and family are equally loud and likable. The inclusion of some Spanish words and details of Sarai's heritage are executed well. Plus, the story was inspired by true events from Sarai's life.

This is sure to be a successful chapter book series. Get ready to feel inspired and awesome!
@kidlitexchange #partner #bookstagram #kidlitexchange #kidlit

[Jennybeast · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super fun new series -- Sarai is a determined young entrepreneur who rolls with set-backs and just keeps going. I appreciate the how she turns frustrations with her younger sisters into an opportunity to create a special place with them, and how she learns to listen over the course of the book. I particularly like how Sarai's family cultures are all recognized and represented -- she has family members that originate from several South American countries, and the book doesn't treat anyone as generic latinx. I particularly liked learning about Peruvian food and drink. Upbeat, good plot, diversity, with Sarai Gonzalez (11) as a co-author of the book (yay for youth voice). Cool project, well presented.

Advanced Reader's Copy provided by Edelweiss.

[AMY · Rating 4 out of 5]

106 pages. This is a realistic fiction story about a 10 year old girl who is trying to earn money so she can help her poor family. It is an immigrant story. Sarai’s grandparents are forced to move from their rental house because the owner is selling. She worries about her grandparents and other family members who live there. Spanish words are sprinkled throughout. There is a lot of cultural discussion and mention of food from Peru. It is well-written. I read 2 chapters/27 pages and liked it so far. It has a nice storyline and the reader will want to keep reading. I would buy it for my school library. Highly recommended for Grades 4-5.

[Amy Layton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarai is a fun, spunky girl who wants nothing more than to help others.  She's a business woman, an entrepreneur, and a dancer.  With a go-getter attitude, she takes matters into her own hands when she learns that her grandparents are going to lose their house.  And with fun illustrations and a bright narrative, this book shows that sometimes efforts can be ultimately ineffective but situations still are able to turn out all right.  This is just a feel-good book that introduces a culture to a wider audience.  It's great for grades 2-4, and perfect for children who are eager to aid others.

Review cross-listed here!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great new beginning chapter book by 11 year old, Sarai Gonzalez! Sarai and her family have always been close but when her grandparents are forced to move, it creates stress for some of the family. Sarai is a determined fourth grader that has so many happy memories at her grandparents house. Her and her cousins join forces to come up with ways to help save their grandparents house! Even though Sarai may only be in fourth grade, that does not stop her from keeping her family first in her life and helping them anyway possible! This will be a great addition into my classroom!

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an uncorrected proof of this book at a library convention As such, only part of it was illustrated, but the illustrations that I did see were very cute.

Chapter book series are not my favorite. That said, they are very popular among the intended audience and there is a lot to like about this book. Sarai would make a welcome addition to the ranks of chapter book heroines.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a perfect example of how a chapter book written for grade school kids can still have an impact. This adorable book is full of culture, perseverance, and heart. I also love what family means to Sarai, and the baking/ cooking aspect will draw lots of young readers, too.

PS - Sarai Gonzalez: add a few recipes in the back of the book next time, please!

4.5 stars

[Margaret Boling · Rating 4 out of 5]

11/4/2018 ~ Lovely celebration of family, culture, and helping others. I thoroughly enjoyed the inclusion of Spanish and Sarai's individuality. I also appreciated the inclusion of a "at home dad" and a computer programmer mom. I look forward to sharing this Junior Fiction chapter book with my 2nd and 3rd grade (and even 4th & 5th grade) readers.

[Kären Marroquin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very accessible read and I appreciate that it shows Sarai and the Gonzalez family as an ordinary family. The story is not about her parents being immigrants (although they are). I did not realize until the end of the book that Sarai is the girl from the video "Soy Yo"- a song that I absolutely adore! So cool that she has used her fame to become a co-author!!!

[Josie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, so I'm conflicted. This was a perfectly readable book for this age group (2nd-3rd grade), with a nice, positive message, good pacing, etc. Also, it had a character named Josie, which always gets a thumbs up in my book. But. It says on the cover, "Inspired by true events from a viral video star and social activist Sarai Gonzalez." I just can't take that bit. Sigh. I'm old.

[Miss Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

A young girl decides she is going to raise the money to save her grandparents home from being sold. She's creative and fun in her ideas and I love the family atmosphere. easy to follow. Great fro beginning chapter book readers. Early elementary

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful and inspiring

My neighbor’s child and I enjoyed reading this book for our first book club meeting. Any parent who wants to explain to their children what “grit” means, should read this book to them.

[Laura Smith Ramsborg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Endearing, fun story about a close-knit family based on true events from the co-author’s life. Sarai has a mom from Peru, and dad from Costa Rica, so students can also learn about or connect with characters from diverse backgrounds.

[Sharie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute story based on 15-min-of-fame you-tube sensation; written well; good lessons

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please see my review on Amazon.com under C.Wong. Thank you.

[Sarita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This should be required reading for middle school young Latinx girls. Loved it.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young Sarai uses optimism and a go-get-'em attitude to take on challenges and look after her family.

[Lorra Metko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un libro para niños sobre Saraí González, la estrella del vídeo “Soy Yo” por Bomba Estéreo.

[Adriana Martinez Figueroa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes.... the real enemy...... is capitalism

[Molly Kasperek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super cute and fun. Great start to a series.