Originally published in 1932, Perez and Martina marked the beginning of Pura Belpré's literary career, one that - like her work as a storyteller and children's librarian at the New York Public Library - was largely devoted to promoting the culture and folklore of her native Puerto Rico in the United States, and to improving library services for the Puerto Rican community of New York. Her pioneering role, in making the public library an institution accessible to the wider Latino community, was recognized in 1996 by the National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-Speaking, who named their award for excellence in children's literature the Pura Belpré Award.

Don't expect a "happily ever after" ending from this Puerto Rican folktale, which follows the pretty little cockroach Martina, as she receives and rejects numerous marriage proposals, until finally the charming mouse Perez succeeds in making her a bride. All is well with the happy newlyweds, until Martina decides to try a new recipe, and Perez - seduced by the delicious odor, and longing to have a taste - leans too far over the kettle, falls in, and is cooked to death.

Yes. The newly wedded husband is accidentally cooked to death - in his wife's kettle. This surprise ending will undoubtedly shock and distress more sensitive younger readers, so parents should be aware of it. Oddly enough, I found it somewhat amusing, if only because it was so wholly unexpected. The accompanying illustrations by Carlos Sanchez (yes, there is a spread of Perez, with his feet sticking out of the kettle) have an old-fashioned charm, with their bright colors and bold design. I think any reader who can get through the Brothers Grimm, can probably handle Perez and Martina, which I would recommend to all folklore lovers and Pura Belpré fans. ( )

my all time favorite as a child ( )