Celia Cruz, Queen Of Salsa
1 Paperback/1 CD (see all formats)

"This biography (Dial, 2005) of Veronica Chambers's childhood idol pays tribute to the child from Havana, Cuba who became "musical royalty." She did not covet fame, but said "I sing for my parents, the ancestors, and the saints." She left Cuba and became a worldwide star, but was never allowed to return to her homeland again. A glossary explains the sprinkling of Spanish words and phrases in the text. Julie Maren's jewel tone paintings celebrate Havana's culture. Michelle Manzo, a Cuban/Dominican singer, brings a lilting Latina quality to the reading of the story, which is punctuated with music ranging from simple melodies to complete renditions of musc by renowned Latin musicians as such as Tito Puentes and Johnny Pacheco as well as the song "Quimbara" by Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco. An excellent introduction to Cruz and Latino culture and music."

"Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa, was not born a princess. She grew up in a poor BARRIO in Havana, where she lived with her family, went to school, and did her chores just like any other girl. But Celia had a voice that moved anyone who heard it…So begins this modern day fairy tale about the life of this flashy salsa diva. Michelle Manzo narrates the story and sings with AZUCAR (sugar)! The production is accompanied by an energetic soundtrack, packed with appropriate sound effects and music that won't let the listener sit still. Julie Maren's illustrations provide a perfect complement to this colorful story. The production also includes a glossary of Spanish terms and a bonus track with the Queen of Salsa herself singing "Quimbara."

"The life and legacy of Cuban American singer Celia Cruz is introduced in this simple but evocative picture-book biography, illustrated with fittingly bright and impressionistic art by Julie Maren. Jazz and salsa singer Manzo, also of Cuban heritage, performs the text word-for-word, accompanied by strains of salsa and well-chosen ambient sounds that extend the narrative. Manzo's accent and background accompaniment lend a depth and warmth that complement the illustrations and preserve the accuracy of the text. For example, the sounds of street vendors who inspired Cruz lend a Latino flavor. An archival recording of Cruz singing with Johnny Pacheco is included on a bonus track. The read-along package (the price includes a hardcover book) holds high appeal for Latino listeners of varying ages and as a creative way to introduce students to Cruz and her music."