Magic Dogs of the Volcanoes

Summary:


This book is called 'Magic Dogs of the Volcanoes' by Manlio Argueta. In this book, the magic dogs that protect the Salvadorian villagers are pursued by wicked soldiers. They have to fight to keep them safe, but they receive  help from two ancient volcanoes and triumph.

Genre Evaluation:

This book is would be classified in the genre of Fantasy. This is supported by the fact that magical dogs don't exist and volcanoes are not able to communicate. This book can also be classified as multicultural because it talks of the culture and beliefs of the people of Salvador. Accuracy of the information is in question, but it tells the young readers a general idea of what their beliefs are.

Classroom Activities:

1. Create a picture of the magical dogs. Teachers can use this as an art project. By using cardstock paper, print out an image of a dog head. Allow the students to use art materials to create wha tthey believe the magical dogs to look like. This activity will allow them to use their creativity.

2. This book is written in two languages: Spanish and English. In the English version, there are several Spanish words in the text with a glossary in the back. The teacher can use this as a vocabulary lesson. This would teach the children about a different language as well as enhance their vocabulary.
I think that this activity would support SLU's Core Value of Respect because it teaches the students to respect the different languages of their peers in a multicultural setting.

Read & Response Questions:

1. If you lived in a village, what animal would you choose to guard it? Why?

2. What do you think  are some of the powers that a guardian animal should have?


Personal Comments:

I really enjoyed reading this book. It took me away from reality to a place where animals could become our guardians and work with nature to protect us. I have already read this book to my children and would recommend it to any teacher for her class.

About the Author:

Manlio Argueta is one of El Salvador's greatest living authors. This is his first book for children. In 1977 he received Latin America's most prestigious literary award, the Casa de las Americas Prize, for Caperucita en la Zona Roja. (No photos found)

References:

Galda, L., Cullinan, B. E., & Sipe, L. R. (2010). Literature and the child (7th ed.). Belmont, CA:         Wadsworths, Inc.

International Children's Digital Library. (2013). Retrieved from http://en.childrenslibrary.org/help/contact.shtml