Tomas and the Library Lady

Bibliography

Mora, Pat. 1997. Tomas and the Library Lady. Ill. by Raul Colon. New York, NY: Random House. ISBN 0679804013

Plot Summary

Tomas and the Library Lady is a charming story about a poor, migrant family who has traveled from Texas to Iowa for the harvest. While they family may be poor in belongings, they are rich in closeness and stories, enjoying sitting and listening to Papa Grande’s classics. Tomas has been given the task of learning new stories to share with the family. As he learns these stories, he develops a relationship with a kind librarian and a love of books.

Critical Analysis

Pat Mora has introduced us to a charming story that teaches the reader about the true riches in life. We are introduced to a young boy who discovers the beauty of getting lost in a book and sharing it with those around you. We are also reminded of the good out there while we get to see the mentor relationship develop between Tomas and the Library Lady. The story is not one that has kids laughing out loud or relating to the situations of migrant workers, but it teaches us some of life’s most important lessons. Wealth is not about the money or belongings you have, but the family and relationships you build with those around you.

While students may not been drawn to this story because of the humor or a relatable story line, they are completely mesmerized by the illustrations of Raul Colon. Raul has created breathtaking illustrations that allow the reader to peek inside the world Tomas finds in books. The deep, rich colors along with Pat Mora’s writing style give the reader a comforting feel as the snuggle up with a lovely story.

Review Excerpts

“Colon's earthy, sun-warmed colors, textured with swirling lines, add life to this biographical fragment and help portray Tomas's reading adventures in appealing ways.” – School Library Journal

“From the immigrant slums of New York City to the fields of California, it's an elemental American experience: the uprooted child who finds a home in the library.” – Booklist

Awards
Selected for Arlington Reads, 2005Texas Bluebonnet Master List, 1999-2000
Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children’s Book Award, Southwest Texas State University, 1998Teachers' Choices, International Reading Association, 1998
Honor Award in the Multicultural and International category. Skipping Stones Magazine, 1998Notable Books for Children, Smithsonian, 1997
Nebraska Golden Sower Nominee, 1999-2000Américas Award Commended List, Consortium of Latin American Studies
Programs (CLASP), University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1997

Connections

Other Books by Pat Mora
The Birthday Lady
Book Fiest!
Confetti
Gracias~Thanks
The Desert is My Mother

Tomas and the Library Lady-A Study Guide
Pat Mora Official Website
Use story to introduce a unit on community helpers or migrant workers