DRUM DREAM GIRL: HOW ONE GIRL’S COURAGE CHANGED MUSIC written by Margarita Engle and illustrated by Rafael López

Review by Christi De Leon

a.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Engle, Margarita. Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music. Ill. by Rafael López. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015. ISBN 9780544102290

b.    SUMMARY & CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Drum Dream Girl tells the true story of a young girl in the 1920’s who dreams to be a drummer, yet there are no female drummers in Cuba. She is constantly reminded of how only boys are supposed to play drums. Through her unfailing courage, she eventually becomes a famous Jazz musician.

This lively, inspirational story is written as a single poem spanning throughout the book from start to finish. The pairing of poetry and music makes this book an enjoyable read for all, especially those who have interest in playing a musical instrument. The sounds and details evoke the reader’s sense imagery. It is easy to follow and contains a small amount of text on each page, which makes it suitable for a younger crowd as well. Through rhythmic text, the reader gains insight into the norms of the Cuban culture during this time in history. This book also encourages discussions on topics such as gender equality. Overall, Drum Dream Girl is the perfect example of what it means to persevere, just as the brave girl in the story did.

The rich, vibrant illustrations consist of acrylic paintings. These illustrations pop with tropical island colors that are eye-catching for readers. The scenes are imaginative and extend upon the text creatively. The sun and moon also smile back at the girl, as if they are on her side. The artwork also depicts diverse backgrounds, such as nighttime in Cuba. This biographical poetry book is inspired by a courageous Chinese-African-Cuban girl named Millo Castro Zaldarriaga. A Historical Note is included at the end of the book, and provides readers with additional background information including her many accomplishments.

c.    POEM TO SPOTLIGHT & SHARE

Poem excerpt from Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music

her hands seemed to fly

as they rippled

rapped

and pounded

all the rhythms

of her drum dreams.

This short excerpt demonstrates the poet’s rich use of poetic elements, such as figurative language in “her hands seemed to fly.” Also, subtle examples of alliteration include “rippled, rapped” and “drum dreams.” Descriptive words like rippled, rapped, and pounded all capture the reader’s attention through sound. Appealing elements like these are found consistently throughout the book making it an excellent choice for sharing with children.

This poem could be shared by reading aloud and giving students a close look at the illustrations, which enhance the text. A discussion could follow about how both girls and boys are free to dream big. Sharing the importance of never giving up on dreams by providing examples from the story gives students a positive, motivational message to carry with them in future aspirations. Students could also listen to related music played by drummers and jazz musicians.