In this picture-book biography Allen Say explores the life story of Bong Way Wong, a Chinese-American man raised in Arizona and known to his siblings as "Billy." A natural athlete, Billy had hoped to become a great basketball player, only to find that he was barred by his lack of height from playing in college. Eventually settling for a more conventional path, he studied engineering and found a 'safe' job as a highway engineer. But on his very first vacation, a trip to Spain, Billy discovered bullfighting, and realized that this was what he truly wanted to do. But how could a man of Chinese ancestry become a matador, and would the Spaniards ever accept him...?

Although a great fan of Allen Say, whose many wonderful picture-books never fail to deliver both engaging stories and beautiful artwork, I did have some mixed feelings about El Chino. On the one hand, I appreciated the fact that Billy Wong persevered in following his dream, never letting the obstacles of national and racial background stand in his way. His father had always said he could be whatever he wanted, and he lived out that maxim. I also appreciated the illustrations, which were just lovely, capturing a sense of light and of motion in each scene. On the other hand, as someone who abhors blood sports - although not a vegetarian, and therefore not opposed to either animal husbandry or subsistence hunting, I think the idea of killing for entertainment is morally indefensible - I had trouble sympathizing with the idea that becoming a matador was a desirable thing, regardless of who so desired. Recommended primarily to admirers of Allen Say's artwork, and to those looking for biographies of Chinese-American trailblazers, with the proviso that the should be aware of the animal welfare issues raised (but unresolved) within the story. ( )

The story of the first Chinese matador.

This is a good book to help children learn about biographies.

El Chino outlines the life of Bong Way “Billy” Wong, the first Chinese matador. This picturebook biography briefly explains Billy’s journey to becoming a bullfighter. Author and illustrator Allan Say’s writing style makes Billy seem alive by sharing about his hardships and successes. The illustrations in this story are picturesque, making the reader feel as if he/she is looking at a photo album of Billy’s life. Because Say only writes on the events and aspects of Billy’s life that relate to Billy becoming a bullfighter, it makes this book have an identifiable theme, “beating the odds” through persistence. This story is relatable to a universal audience and engaging enough to keep the attention of older age readers. Due to this book outlining a unique athlete and having limited text with great illustrations, it should be included in collections that house juvenile biographies.

Age Appropriate: 3rd-5th Grade ( )