Gary Soto
an author study by Rebecca Brannon
Gary Soto
Gary Soto was born in Freso, California to Mexican-American parents in 1952. His father passed away when he was only five years old, because of this, he had little time for school. He had to work in agriculture, yet he still found inspiration from classic authors and poets in High School. He continued his studies earning degrees in English and Poetry Writing. He was a professor and is an award winning author of books for both children and adults. He also dedicated himself to promoting activism and is involved in several community programs.
It appears these days I don't have much of a life because my nose is often stuck in a book. But I discovered that reading builds a life inside the mind.
Gary Soto
Gary Soto
What books can we read by Gary Soto?
a collection of books by author Gary Soto
Too Many Tamales
Join Maria as she joins her Mother to make tamales for Christmas. Help her solve the problem of her Mother's missing ring. Here is a video of a reading of the book!
My Little Car
Teresa's Grandfather gifts her a beautiful pedal driven low-rider car. When it falls into disrepair, she learns about taking care of her things. Learn about Latino culture and some Spanish vocabulary.
The Old Man and His Door
Why did the old man take a door to a barbecue? Discover why the old man brought a door and how that saved a pig. In this caper, you'll be on the edge of your seat following each turn in this captivating tale.
Snapshots from the Wedding
Maria is a flower girl at the Wedding. Join her as she experiences the big day and her perspective of the events. Artful pictures add to the experience.
Lucky Luis
Luis begins to think that his samples from the grocery store before practice are giving him good luck. Let's read about how his dad helps him and he begins to understand hard work and patience.
Chato's Kitchen
I know what you're thinking. Yes, Gary Soto wrote a series of picture books. Chato's Kitchen is the first book in this series about one cool cat. In this first book, Chato invites his new mice neighbors for a feast... Here is a video of the book being read
Gary Soto's collection of books offer engaging literature with Spanish vocabulary and a window into Hispanic American culture.
Additional Resources for Teachers
Too Many Tamales: A Detailed Lesson Plan for A Read Aloud for Kindergarteners
The Old Man and His Door: Increasing Phonemic Awareness across ages
Snapshots from the Wedding: A Video About the Complex Features
And finally, an intriguing article written by Gary Soto about the politicization and the controversy involved in writing for to a widely criticized genre.
Gary Soto
Mr. Soto encourages classes to write him letters. He wants to hear your opinion on his books and anything else that you would like to tell him. However, he will not write to you about homework.
Website: www.garysoto.com
Location: 43 The Crescent, Berkeley, CA, United States
Phone: (510) 649-0760
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gary-Soto/108186295870398?fref=ts