¡Vamos! Let's Go Eat

By: Raul the Third Ill: Elaine Bay Published: 2020 Awards: Pura Belpre Grade: 4-6th

Thrown to the delicious escapades, Raúl the Third's "¡Vamos! Let's Go Eat," vibrantly colored by Elaine Bay, is a whirlwind adventure that celebrates both Mexican culture and the joy of food. The fast-paced storyline follows Lobo, a young Mexican-American boy, and his faithful dog Bernabé as they embark on a mission to deliver lunch to the luchadores preparing for the grand "Lucha Libre 5000" event. This delightful picture book not only entertains young readers but also offers a playful introduction to Spanish and the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine.

The illustrations in "¡Vamos!" are a fiesta for the eyes. Bay utilizes a vibrant palette with culturally recognized colors that are welcoming. Warm yellows and oranges evoke the sizzling heat of fresh tortillas, while cool blues and greens represent refreshing aguas frescas “. Each food truck Lobo visits explodes with color, showcasing the visual abundance of Mexican street food. This visual feast complements the story perfectly, whetting the reader's appetite alongside the characters.

Seamlessly blending English and Spanish, there's a gentle introduction to the language for young children. Simple Spanish phrases like "¡Vamos!" (Let's go!) and "¡Buen provecho!" (Enjoy your meal!) are sprinkled throughout the story, creating a natural exposure to the language within the context of familiar activities like eating. Additionally, the illustrations often provide visual cues, like depicting a fruit vendor with a sign labeled "Frutas Picadas" (Chopped Fruits), aiding children in making connections between Spanish words and their meanings.

Lobo's journey takes him to a variety of food vendors, each offering a delectable taste of Mexico. He gathers steaming tacos, refreshing cups of "aguas frescas," and the iconic "cuernos" (literally horns, a type of sweet pastry). By showcasing this diversity of food, the book not only celebrates the culinary richness of Mexico but also subtly introduces readers to new vocabulary related to food items.

"¡Vamos! Let's Go Eat" is more than just a children's book about food. It's a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture, language, and the joy of sharing a meal. Through its captivating story, dazzling illustrations, and playful use of Spanish, the book offers a delightful introduction to both for young readers. So, the next time you hear "¡Buen provecho!", you might just find yourself craving a taste of Mexico, inspired by Lobo's delicious adventure can be found in my Library.

Reference:

The Third, R. (2020). ¡Vamos! Let's go eat. Versify.