Review | Camila, the Record Breaking Star

Summary: Camila the Record-Breaking Star

Camila the Record-Breaking Star is the first in the Camila the Star series by Alicia Salazar, illustrated by Thias Damiao. In this book, young Camila who has always wanted to be una estrella discovers that one way she can do this is by breaking a world record, but which one? After much thought and many failed tries, she finally finds the perfect thing for her. She’s not going to break any previously set records; she’ll set hers instead!

The Good

This is a cute chapter book, much like the Yasmin series by Saadia Faruqi. It’s an excellent book for kids who just trying to get into chapter books. At 32 pages, it’s pretty much a picture book with just a bit more text and an “older” plot. I loved the illustrations and the sibling dynamics between Camila and her older siblings Andres and Ana as well as Camila’s resilience and creativity.

If your kids like their book-related activities, then they’ll love the two at the end of this book, as well as the glossary of Spanish words used throughout the book. Much like the Sophia Martinez books, this one also has Spanish words highlighted throughout and would be useful if you’re trying to teach basic Spanish words and phrases.

Overall: Camila the Record-Breaking Star

Camila the Record-Breaking Star is an excellent start to a fun chapter book series with a bright, creative heroine who learns the value of being resilient. With highlighted Spanish words and phrases interspersed throughout the story and a useful glossary at the end of the book, this is a great way to help kids learn and remember simple Spanish words. Finally, the easy-to-read text and vivid illustrations will capture the eyes of any child who is new to reading chapter books. I would definitely recommend this to those looking for chapter books for first and second graders.

Buy This Book

*I received an eARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

More Chapter Book Reviews

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• Farah Rocks Fifth Grade by Susan Muaddi Darraj
• Twig and Turtle 1: Big Move to a Tiny House by Jennifer Richard Jacobson

Have you read this book or any chapter books with Spanish words? If you’re looking for more chapter books to read in 2021, here’s my list of 30 chapter books and picture books to choose from!