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Loved it! 😍
Hazel Pacheco also did a remarkable job developing a story that could reach a broad audience.
Gloria is ready to celebrate! Except her friends suddenly have more important things to do. Undeterred, Gloria decides to throw a last-minute party. But a warning about a sorpresa in the clearing threatens her plans! If Gloria is going to save this day, she will need all the optimism and determination she can muster!
Gloria, a lovely bird, started her morning with a smile because it was a "special" day. Why the day was so special plays into the story's conclusion, so I'm refraining from divulging what day it is.
As the day began, Gloria found her friends huddled together, whispering. She asked to hang out with them, but they all had excuses and dashed off. At first, her mood soured, but then Gloria quickly bounced back. She didn't let their evasiveness dampen her spirit. Instead, she planned to throw the covey a party. "Covey" is a word that might be foreign to young readers. There were a handful of other words that might also trip up readers. Hazel Pacheco's glossary includes this and over a dozen more words. I suggest reading over the list before reading the book.
Gloria's day started with excitement, but her happy glow diminished as the day wore on. Her party planning was not a smooth process. Food, location, and party guests are needed and elude the bird.
Gloria experiences terrible luck planning the party, but the end of her story ends on a very happy note. She's reunited with her friends in a surprising twist.
Gloria's tale teaches children that sometimes life doesn't go as planned, but don't give up. You never know what's around the corner or "under the branches of mesquite and into the clearing," as in this story's jubilant conclusion.
Due to the advanced text, I recommend Gloria Smiled by Hazel Pacheco to school-age children. If a parent or teacher simplifies the text, a younger audience (three and four-year-olds) could follow it. All ages will enjoy the illustrations by Kim Sponaugle. The artist did a lovely job making each bird stand out as an individual. Hazel Pacheco also did a remarkable job developing a story that could reach a broad audience.
4.5 stars
Reviewed by
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Synopsis
Gloria is ready to celebrate! Except her friends suddenly have more important things to do. Undeterred, Gloria decides to throw a last-minute party. But a warning about a sorpresa in the clearing threatens her plans! If Gloria is going to save this day, she will need all the optimism and determination she can muster!
About the author
After retiring, Hazel Pacheco discovered a new passion--writing. Since her home is in New Mexico, you won’t find her taking long walks along the beach, but she does have plenty of sandy paths to walk in her native Land of Enchantment. That is how she became acquainted with the gambel quail. view profile
Published on May 12, 2023
0-1000 words
Worked with a Reedsy professional 🏆
Genre: Children's
Reviewed by
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