Stella Diaz Has Something to Say



Last updated Sunday, November 15, 2020

Author: Angela Dominguez
Illustrator: Angela Dominguez
Date of Publication: 2018
ISBN: 1626728585
Grade Level: 2nd    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Jun. 2020

Synopsis: Stella Díaz loves marine animals, especially her betta fish, Pancho. But Stella Díaz is not a betta fish. Betta fish like to be alone, while Stella loves spending time with her mom and brother and her best friend Jenny. Trouble is, Jenny is in another class this year, and Stella feels very lonely.

Note to readers:
•  This book switches some English words for their Spanish counterparts.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Does your family sit down together for meals? Do you help prepare the table or the food?
•  What traditions does your family have where you all come together?
•  What is your favorite food?

Vocabulary

•  Albondigas - Meatballs. Singular: Albondiga. Accent is on the second syllable)
•  Sabor - Taste

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Have you ever been in a situation similar to Stella's? How did you make your friends?
•  How would you feel if your friend started to match with someone else? Would you feel upset?
•  What is a subject that you would like help with, but it can be hard for you to talk about?

Craft ideas:
•  Draw a picture of you and your best friend eating your favorite food, like Stella and her family.
•  Ask kids to show off their favorite things in the Zoom call. Ask which character they think would like their thing. Volunteers should demonstrate this with something from their surroundings.
•  Draw your own perfect betta fish, a fish like you and any color you want, just like Stella and Pancho.
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/june-2020-friendship-and-fun/

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!