Shadow of a Bull

Title: Shadow of a Bull

Author: Maia Wojciechowska

Publisher: Atheneum Books

Date: 1964

Number of Pages: 151

Reading Level: Ages 9-12

Genre: Children's Literature - Fiction

Summary: Twelve-year old son of local bullfighter Juan Olivar, is raised in the shadow of his deceased Father. Manolo is expected to follow in his fathers footsteps, and become the next great bullfighter in the small town of Arcangel, Spain. Attempting to live up to the expectations of fellow townspeople, Manolo struggles to find the strength and courage to even begin to think of becoming the ultimate bullfighter.

Manolo begins to train as a matador without much enthusiasm. He finds out through through the process what really does bring him happiness and excitement, and it isn't the path that his fathers friends, his mother, and all the locals expected of this young boy. Manolo realizes that he does not have the spirit of a bullfighter, and gives his best friends brother the opportunity to fight in his place. Giving the underdog the rare opportunity that he would not be able to achieve on his own for quite some time shows that Manolo has found convertibility with the situation, and knows it is not his calling at this point in his life. He toils with remaining true to himself, and honoring his late father.  

My Reaction: I really enjoyed this coming of age story. I think that most young men look up to their fathers, and hope to one day have half the success they have achieved in their lifetimes. I think a neat twist to this is Manolo's confidence realizing that he doesn't have to be just like his father to be successful. He knows within his heart that he is not a bullfighter, and is able to stand up with courage and say, "this is not me, I am who I am." I believe it shows great strength to go against the expectations laid out before you. Especially in a culture like Manolo's, and a small town such as Arcangel, Spain. The author had a great way of creating vivid detail so that you felt like you were right there apart of the story.

Potential Problems: There is many bullfighting references and Spanish words that you are directed to flip to the back page for a directory of these terms. It is a more difficult book to understand, and my be better relayed if read aloud.

Recommendations: I would recommend Shadow of a Bull by Maia Wojciechowska as being a great read for many young boys looking to find the strength to stand up and say, "this is me, I am who I am."