Martina the Beautiful Cockroach

Bibliographic Citation

Deedy, C. A., & Austin, M. (2007). Martina the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folktale (Illustrated ed.). Peachtree Publishing Company.

About the Book

This is a humorous Cuban folktale about a beautiful cockroach named Martina who gets surprising advice from her grandmother to help her decide on a suitable husband. After purposely spilling coffee on several candidates, Martina meets a charming mouse that actually applies the same advice on her!

Martina the Beautiful Cockroach. Deedy incorporates some words in Spanish that are no impediment to understanding the story since she provides a translation. Austin’s beautiful illustrations support the text by helping enrich the culture of the folktale. The large and colorful images help us see the detailed characteristics of the characters.

Connections

Book trailer

Books with similar themes:

• Adelaida: A Cuban Cinderella by Ana Monnar; illustrated by Nancy Michaud

Other books by author:

• Rita & Ralph's Rotten Day

• 14 Cows for America

Teaching ideas:

• This is a great book to use in the classroom when introducing folktales.

• This book would also be great for Reader’s Theatre. I can see my students really getting into their roles.

Requirement the Book Meets

• Required book list