Dorina K. Lazo Gilmore

I really adore this book! I have a childhood friend named Cora whom I introduced Filipino culture to, and now she is happily married to a Filipino man. I find this children's picture book stands out from many international books. First, I noticed I rarely see Filipino culture illustrated in children's books. I appreciated all of the mentions of different popular Filipino foods. It provided rich new vocabulary for the reader, such as "lumpia," "pancit," and "Lulu." The book also made a strong show more connection to the importance of family. Family in Filipino culture is a very cherished and valued aspect to the culture, and this book underlines the story with this aspect. show less

"Cora loved the kitchen. She loved to drink in the smells of Mama's Filipino dishes." And one day, when her older sisters and brother are out, Cora gets her chance to help Mama with the cooking - to really help her. No more baby tasks like licking the spoon! Cora and Mama are making pancit - a Filipino noodle dish - and Cora gets to shred the chicken, and stir the noodles. But will her family appreciate the results...?

With adorable, warm-toned illustrations by Krista Valiant, this engaging show more story of a little girl and her mother cooking together really comes alive! Infused with a sense of family warmth, Cora Cooks Pancit also offers young readers a glimpse of Filipino culture, and the history of Filipinos in America. A recipe for pancit is even included at the back! Highly recommended for all young readers, particularly those who like to help out in the kitchen! show less

I’m almost never a fan of stories where someone is immediately great at something they’ve never tried before since rarely is anyone perfect at something their first time out, a story like Kailani’s Gift is more life-like, more attainable, and inspiring, showing that yeah, initially you may struggle at something but if you keep trying and work hard, you’ll improve.

So great message here, and as an added bonus, there are some truly adorable illustrations and in a really pretty color show more palette.

I received this book through a giveaway. show less

“Kailani’s Gift” is fun children’s story that will probably make you want to learn the national dance of the Philippines!

Young Kailani sees her sisters and brother practicing the traditional Filipino dance called tinikling. They are planning a performance for their grandparents’ (Lolo and Lola’s) Golden Anniversary, and Kailani wants to join in. She only has a week to learn the intricate dance. Can she do it in time?

The story is not only fun and meaningful, but it offers so much show more information on Filipino customs, foods, language, and culture. What a fun learning experience! There’s even a Glossary page that offers definitions for half a dozen Tagalog words.

First Line: Only one more week until Lolo and Lala’s big anniversary party!
Genre: Children
Author: Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young
Page Count: 40
Reading Age: 3-7

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine. show less