First Day in Grapes

Review
By Oneonta Reading Journal

First Day in Grapes is a wonderful story because of its universal values. Chico’s solution to his problem with the boys teachers readers to be proud of their own accomplishments and that standing up for oneself can be done nonviolently. Chico’s bravery is an example to children facing new and different situations. This book presents a well-rounded use of cultural elements including Spanish words and activities such as playing salsa on guitars. The author uses her husband’s experiences as a migrant child to authenticate her work and has created a quality work of multicultural literature with a powerful message for readers.