When Woman Became the Sea
By Susan Strauss Illustrated By Cristina
Acosta
Published Fall
1998, Beyond Words Publishing, Inc. Hillsboro,
Oregon ISBN# 1-885223-85-4
“A lovely creation myth from Costa Rica is retold in
read-aloud rhythm and illustrated with gorgeous, tropical
paintings. Sound effects are indicated by the waving,
explosive typeface that will inspire dramatic story
hours. The rich colors and vivid patterns of
Acosta’s illustrations echo Latino pottery and design,
making this an irresistible package.”
Kirkus
Reviews, September
1998
“Acosta illustrates the tale with swirling, thick-lined
tropical scenes in which form takes second place to vibrant,
emphatic color. The eye-catching visuals. . . and the
author’s natural-sounding language. . . make the tale a
promising candidate for reading aloud.”
Booklist, October 1998
“When Woman Became the Sea; A Costa Rican Creation Myth
recounts an allegory of the intertwined origins of trees and
water in the interplay between Thunder and Sea.”
Bookman’s
Weekly, November
1998
“Strauss is a storyteller and her colloquial, rhythmic
narrative just begs to be read or told aloud. The vivid
acrylic illustrations make the most of strong shapes, swirling
brush strokes and clean blocks of color to create a primitive
style emboldened by a sense of movement, perfect for a myth
about making and doing. The page layout is excellent,
with spiraled, script like print balancing and enhancing the
kinetic look of the artwork.”
School Library
Journal, February
1999
Though out of print, used
copies may be found on Amazon.
Original paintings
(acrylic on paper) are available for sale and/or
exhibits. Contact Cristina with your request.
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