Reviewed by Issac Abernethy
Review Source: Reading Is Resistance
Book Author: Raquel Donoso
Many voices together can make a big noise, Papi.
Viva’s Voice, written by Raquel Donoso and illustrated by Carlos Vélez Auiglera, is the story of Viva and her papi standing up for change and is inspired by the author’s childhood experiences as the daughter of Latinx immigrant parents living in Los Angeles. Viva’s papi works as a municipal bus driver and often lets Viva ride with him on his route. All is well with Viva while riding the bus, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. One day, as Viva prepares to join her papi, he informs her he won’t be driving the bus. Viva asks why, and he explains that bus drivers are on strike. Papi goes on to explain why members of his local union have chosen to strike. After Papi’s explanation, Viva asks Papi if she can attend the strike and make “big noise.” Initially hesitant, Papi agrees to bring Viva along. Continue reading on Reading is Resistance.
Viva's Voice by Raquel Donoso
on September 1, 2022
Genres: Activism, Labor
Pages: 32
Reading Level: Grade K, Grades 1-2
ISBN: 9781638940067
Review Source: Reading Is Resistance
Five-year-old Viva learns there is a need for girls with powerful voices everywhere when she helps Papi raise his voice on the picket line.
Viva's Papi is a bus driver and Viva loves going to work with him. The sounds of the traffic and the voices of the passengers are music to Viva's ears. When she finds out that Papi's union is going on strike, she convinces Papi to take her along to the picket line. When quiet Papi is too nervous to give his speech, Viva uses her powerful voice to give him the confidence to find his own. A first introduction to labor unions, strikes, picket lines, and workers' rights, this powerful picture book is both educational and endearing.
Debut author Raquel Donoso has crafted a beautiful story about courage, family, and using your voice to help others. Viva's story is based on Donoso's own childhood experience, in which her father's union went on strike.
Leave a Reply