My Name is Celia/ Me llamo Celia

My Name is Celia/Me llamo Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz/la vida Celia Cruz

By Monica Brown

Illustrated by Rafael Lopez

“My Name is Celia/Me llamo Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz/la vida de Celia Cruz” chronicles the life of the “Queen of Salsa”, Celia Cruz. This bi-lingual biography is told in the first person, as though Cruz is sitting next to the reader, simply talking to them about her life. She starts with her childhood in Havana, her love of music, and her rise to fame despite racial barriers. When the revolution begins, she leaves Cuba to travel with her band, and eventually moves to New York City. She spends her career singing and sharing her special style of music. Celia Cruz is part of the group of people credited for blending rock, rumba, mambo and jazz to invent a new style of music, salsa.

The book draws the reader in with its conversational tone and colorful, Caribbean style illustrations. It is appealing to a wide audience, as her personal story is relatable on several levels. Celia Cruz persevered despite many hardships, to follow her dream and bring joy to others with her music. Many readers will be left with a desire to learn more about the “Queen of Salsa”.

I recommend this book for all ages, in particular elementary age children, and for both English and Spanish speakers.  The tone of the book is upbeat and Cruz’ life story could be used as a positive example for others. The illustrations have a unique style, which help portray Cuba in a positive light. This book is a winner of the Americas Award for Children’s and Adult Literature.

Monica Brown talks about the book

Rafael Lopez talks about his artwork