Just in Case

Morales, Y. (2008). Just in case: a trickster tale and Spanish alphabet book. New York: Roaring Brook Press.

Summary: At last the day had arrived. It was Grandma Beetle’s birthday! Senor Calavera was on his way when Zelmiro’s ghost stops him to remind him to bring a present for Grandma. The skeleton goes through every letter of the alphabet while finding presents to bring for her. Zelmiro’s ghost keeps having the skeleton find more presents "just in case". However, the skeleton was riding a bike and lost control down a hill, fell, and everything that he had gathered to bring for Grandma Beetle went missing. He was so worried. At last, he had an idea. He brought Grandma Beetle the present she loved the most.

Review: This book is ideal for students in pre-kindergarten to second grade. I love how it takes you through the entire Spanish alphabet by introducing fun vocabulary. Each Spanish word has its English explanation, which makes learning much easier. Although the main character Señor Calavera is the death, his image is positive. This book teaches kids more than alphabet but the love among our family.