Just a Minute

By Yuyi Morales

A surprise guest demands Grandma Beetle leave, but she has a clever plan.

5.6/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,530 ratings

36 pages

$15.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

When Senor Calavera arrives to take Grandma Beetle away, she insists on finishing her party preparations first. With each task, she cleverly delays, counting in English and Spanish, ensuring her birthday is spent with family. Will her wit outsmart her unexpected guest? Discover a tale rich in Mexican culture and family warmth.

From the publisher

In this original trickster tale, Senor Calavera arrives unexpectedly at Grandma Beetle’s door. He requests that she leave with him right away. “Just a minute,” Grandma Beetle tells him. She still has one house to sweep, two pots of tea to boil, three pounds of corn to make into tortillas – and that’s just the start! Using both Spanish and English words to tally the party preparations, Grandma Beetle cleverly delays her trip and spends her birthday with a table full of grandchildren and her surprise guest. This spirited tribute to the rich traditions of Mexican culture is the perfect introduction to counting in both English and Spanish. The vivacious illustrations and universal depiction of a family celebration are sure to be adored by young readers everywhere.

Awards

Americas Award (2003)Golden Kite Honor (2004)

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 36
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: 540L

Themes & topics

Books about grandma Books about counting and numbers Books about Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)Books about culture Books about Mexico

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.6

out of 7

5.5

“This is a classic counting tale that teaches learning to count in English and Spanish. It also involves the delightful Grandma Beetle and her clever encounter with Señor Calaveras, or Mr. Skeleton. It makes for a great title to enjoy on Dia de los Muertos and all throughout the year. The ending is fun and touching.”

The Goodfather

Trusted reviewer

For readers who can't stop at one