School Library Journal - Audio
07/01/2020
PreS-Gr2—Mexican artist Frida Kahlo had a challenging childhood that includes illness and loneliness. Her imagination offered solace and escape, much of which is reflected in her artwork. Told in the first person and narrated by Cynthia Farrell, this work transports readers into young Frida's heart and mind while supplying insights into her childhood. End notes provide further information about the artist and her work. Farrell reads the text in a warm, sympathetic voice while background music and sounds enhance the performance. VERDICT This nicely paced and lovely presentation would be best appreciated with the book, as illustrations are key to full enjoyment of the text.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elem. Sch., Federal Way, WA
School Library Journal
11/08/2019
K-Gr 3—Little Frida, a round-headed girl of six with a bowl cut, expressive brown eyes, and a thin unibrow, describes falling ill with polio and feeling different from her peers. When she draws a door in the condensation on her bedroom window, it leads her into the world of her imagination, which is where the majority of the book takes place. There she meets a girl, her mirror image, who becomes her friend, muse, and confidant for life. While maintaining his own style, Browne artfully captures the essence of Kahlo's work in each illustration, with nods to her distinctive landscapes, clothing, and animal motifs. The story ends with the child back at home, with a dawning interest in art. The book is certainly more story than biography, as it contains only a snapshot of Kahlo's childhood, and no bibliography or extended reading. An author's note includes a reference to Kahlo's diary in which she describes meeting an imaginary friend. VERDICT This abstract adventure with lush illustrations will engage readers, and perhaps create new devotees of the artist. A suggested purchase for libraries with room for another Kahlo-inspired picture book.—Clara Hendricks, Cambridge Public Library, MA
