Torrance, CA (May 7, 2012): On Friday, May 4, 2012 Bishop Montgomery hosted a very special guest on campus when alumna Gladys Barbieri ’92 returned to share her award-winning children’s book with many of the honors and Advanced Placement Spanish students. Her first book, Rubber Shoes…A Lesson in Gratitude (Los zapatos de goma…una leccion de gratitud) was the Gold Medal Winner, Spanish Language Book 2011 by the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.
The book, written in English and Spanish, is a true story from Barbieri’s life. In the book, Gladys Elizabeth becomes disappointed when her mother buys her the "ugliest" shoes in the world. She devises a foolproof plan in hopes of destroying her ugly shoes. However Gladys Elizabeth doesn't account for the sturdiness of her shoes and in the end learns a valuable lesson in gratitude. “I wanted this story to be bilingual because it is my belief that celebrating the vast cultures and differences in our world is key in developing understanding, peace and love,” explains Barbieri. “And that is my hope, to continue writing stories that inspire love and connection.”
Barbieri, a first grade teacher, visited Ms. Rodriguez’ AP Spanish Language classes, Ms. Galdamez’ Honors Spanish I and II classes, and Ms. Reano’s AP Spanish Literature class. Before reading her book (in Spanish) to the classes, Barbieri spoke to the students about the importance of learning a different language, visiting different countries, and getting out of your comfort zone. Barbieri even called upon some students to come up practice their Spanish by reading a few pages.
After graduating from Bishop Montgomery, Barbieri received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of San Francisco and her Master’s in elementary education from Loyola Marymount University.
For more information about Barbieri and to purchase her book, visit www.chuchosbooks.com or follow her on Twitter @chuchosbooks.