Adelita
Written and Illustrated by: Tomie dePaola
Summary:
Adelita is the Mexican version of the Cinderella story. In it, a young couple Francisco and Adela have a baby, but Adela dies in child birth. The father names the baby girl Adelita, or little Adela. Throughout Adelita's life she is taken care of by a helper, Esperanza. Later in life Adelia's father marries another women, Senora Micaela de la Fortuna who has two daughters, Valentina and Dulce. Soon after the marriage Adelita's father dies and her stepmother forces Esperanza, Adelita's caretaker and friend to leave, and Adelita to become a servant. One day, the family hears about a fiesta that Senora Gordillo was having to celebrate their son Javier. At this fiesta he would be looking for a wife. The stepsisters and stepmother prepared for the fiesta, but Adelita would not be able to go. When she thought there would be no hope of going, Esperanza showed up at her home with her mothers dress. Adelita got dressed, went to the ball, and won the love of Javier, but left before he had the chance of knowing her name. The next day he went through the village to find his true love, and to the surprise of her stepmother, Javier found and declared his love to Adeita. The two were married and lived happily ever after!
Application:
This story is a version of the Cinderella story, and has many references to the Mexican culture. It can be used when studying fairy tales in a comparison of how fairy tales vary throughout cultures. Students can read both the classic version of Cinderella, as well as the Mexican Adelita and do a comparison chart on the two. This book can also provide study on or examples of Mexican culture. The book has an example of a fiesta, the traditional clothing worn to a fiesta, and the types of things people do at a fiesta. Examples of traditional Mexican houses and foods are also present in this story. Another element of this story that sets it apart is the use of key Spanish phrases paired with others in English. This can be used to teach students a few Spanish words, as well as immerse them in the culture.
