Martina the Beautiful Cockroach

Deedy, C. (2007). Martina the Beautiful Cockroach. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree 

When Martina needs to find a suitable husband, the cockroach’s grandmother has some unusual advice. Martina reluctantly complies and meets several potential mates. Only one passes the "coffee test" and does so in his own clever way. This Cuban folktale teaches the value of kindness and respect for ones elders.

Textbook Assignment #1 

Literary Example of Texture

     The illustrator Michael Austin brilliantly uses shadow and layering to give the perception of depth. The imposing rooster has an equally imposing reflection and the dominating pig has a massive shadow that follows him down the sun-soaked street. The lizard’s scaly skin gives the impression that the page should feel as abrasive as his attitude. In contrast, the delicate detail on the little mouse mirrors his sweet personality. Aside from the animals, the plants have a beautiful quality of glossy leaves and velvety flowers.

Cultural Markers

The cultural markers can be seen in the sprinkling of Spanish words throughout the text, the peeks into old-town Havana, and the Cuban’s affinity for their coffee. Martina’s respect of her grandmother also demonstrates the Cuban culture of appreciating the wisdom of one’s elders. It is only fitting that her eventual soulmate would not only be respectful of her, but indicate that he shares and respects her Cuban culture.

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