Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
by Anika Aldamuy Denise
HarperCollins 2020
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 4.1 (4th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- immigration
- storytelling and folklore
- bilingualism and cultural identity
- libraries and community
- perseverance
- representation
- heritage and tradition
- inspiration
About this book
This vibrant picture book biography celebrates Pura Belpré, New York City’s first Puerto Rican librarian, who brought Puerto Rican folktales and bilingual storytelling to American libraries. From her arrival in 1921 to her joyful puppet shows and groundbreaking books, readers see how stories can plant seeds of belonging and pride. Lyrical text and rich illustrations make the history accessible to young readers and perfect for reading aloud. Kids who love libraries, folklore, and real-life trailblazers will be inspired by Pura’s legacy.
Setting: Puerto Rico and New York City public libraries, 1920s–1960s
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré. The reading level is AR 4.1, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include immigration, storytelling and folklore, bilingualism and cultural identity.
How long does it take to read Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,100 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré have an AR quiz?
Yes — Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré?
Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré has an AR reading level of 4.1, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.