Victoria Goes to Brazil

by Maria de Fatima Campos

Victoria's mother was born in Brazil, but she and her daughter live in London. Now it's time for a visit to the country where Mom grew up. From a coffee farm to a saint's day procession, from a street children's shelter to a huge family barbeque, Victoria learns about her mother's country and enjoys getting to know her large Brazilian family. Using vibrant photographs and a first-person narrative based on the fresh perceptions of a child, <>Victoria Goes to Brazil> stimulates young imaginations by showcasing the unfamiliar yet fascinating food, clothing, customs, and culture of this colorful and diverse country.

Genres: Picture Books, Travel, Childrens, Nonfiction

40 pages, Hardcover

First published August 25, 2009

Reviews

[Louise Bunting · Rating 4 out of 5]

Victoria Goes to Brazil by Maria de Fatima Campos is a non-fiction book about a girl who visits her mother's birth place – Brazil. The book consists of a collection of photos which represent Victoria's experiences in Brazil. She visits her Brazilian family who live in places such as Sao Paulo and Ihla Bella. The book highlights aspects of Brazilian history and culture through the eyes of a child's first experience of exploring her heritage. Victoria speaks Portuguese, tries traditional Brazilian food, takes part in dancing Capoeira, and explores the local environment. The book also contains a glossary of unfamiliar Portuguese words, and a recipe for a Brazilian dish.

This book would be a welcome addition to any KS1 or KS2 class bookshelf. It contains interesting facts about Brazil which could be used to introduce children to the concept of using non-fiction books to research a topic. Additionally, as the book focuses on a girl who is exploring her mother's birthplace, it may appeal to children who were born, or who have family who were born, in different countries. The teacher could use this book as a discussion starter on diversity and comparisons between the different cultures represented in the classroom.

[Dora · Rating 2 out of 5]

A 2010 Americas Commended Title.
Informational text about a young girl who visits her extended family in Brazil. The text highlights the beauty of Brazil's culture, like the food and the language. Great for all ages to compare perspectives about life in Brazil as well as learning more about the culture.

[Tessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book for kids studying Brazil. This is the photo journal of a little girl's trip with her Brazilian mother all over Brazil with family and friends. Great photos, text and fun. Not too long and interesting to kiddos.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

First person look at a child's trip to Brazil. Makes the adventure very personal. Victoria has Down Syndrome.

[Tnb · Rating 1 out of 5]

too busy and not much of brasil is in this book-too busy with pictures and difficult to connect the pictures to the multiple names mentioned in the book. it's distracting more than anything else