Becoming Naomi León (Scholastic Gold)

I read Becoming Naomi Leon. It's about a girl who lives with her grandmother and her brother Owen. Every time Naomi goes to school, some of the boys there make fun of her name. Naomi thinks she should switch her name even though she knows it's her grandmother's name.

Naomi's grandmother is also giving her the pep talk about how she's named after her grandmother. I think the two conflicts in this story is when kids were making fun of Naomi's name and when her grandmother was talking about how her husband died fifty years ago.

I would recommend this book to someone who likes soap carving and note taking. Here are a few things about Naomi: soap carving, worrying, and making lists. I hope you enjoy this book.

by YY

In a word, "Glorious!"

Like AL CAPONE DOES MY SHIRTS, this is one of the few young adult novels that transcend the label "Young Adult" and become a highly recommended novel for anyone.

Gorgeously written with a treasure trove of figurative and poetic language, this story (told from a fifth-grader's perspective) deals with a realistic world where a mother can be mean and self-serving and not interested at all in what's best for her children. Hopeful, sad, thoroughly rewarding, I can't recommend this book enough.

I WILL be using this book in my eighth grade classes this year to explore figurative language in writing, as well as international cultures, and look forward to sharing this wonderful book with my students.

Becoming Naomi Leon is one of the best children's books I have ever read. I sat down to read it, and I could not put it down! I read all 200 pages in one day! The way Ryan brings her imagination into real life is amazing.

Becoming Naomi Leon is a great book about a young lady and her brother who had to move into her grandmother's house after their mother could not take care of them any longer. Naomi never felt like she belonged, having a weird name and clothes that were sewn by her grandmother. To help with her anxiety Naomi would carve soap. Naomi also has a brother who is physically handicap. Then after seven years of being with her grandmother he mother came back to take her away. Her grandmother packed her and her brother up and took off to Mexico to find Dad. This is where Naomi found out all about her culture and all about the nights of radish. Naomi's dad gives all rights to Naomi's grandmother, and now visits her and her brother as much as possible.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a real life novel. I actually read it with my children and talked about how people are less fortunate and yet the make the best of what they have. It is also a great story for a child who is struggling through divorce; it will make them realize they are not alone.

Becoming Naomi Leon
By Pam Munoz Ryan

Becoming Naomi Leon is one of the best Children's Books i have read in years. Naomi is a very interesting, soft-spoken girl living with her little brother, Owen and her great-grandmother. They live together in a travel trailer they call "Baby Beluga." The children's mother left them in the care of their Gram seven years ago, and she is the only real family the children have known. Throughout the book Naomi finally learns the truth about her mother and why she left her and Owen so long ago. She also comes to learn about her father, Santiago, and how he actually did want Naomi and Owen but was kept away from them. While on a trip to Mexico to look for her father, Naomi comes to learn about her family and her culture. She also learns great lessons along the way on what family really means to her and comes to realize how amazing her heritage really is. She is able to finally meet her father and can now have that father-daughter relationship she deserves.

I could not put the book down so i would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an inspirational story of family and culture.

A Pura Belpre Award-Honor Book 2006
Ryan, P.M.(2004). Becoming Naomi Leon. New York:Scholastic Press

Children have every day problems too. They may limp down the hallway with a gleaming smile and never show it or eternalize it and believe they aren't worthy of a sleep over with friends. Becoming Naomi Leon is a fantastic insight into what may be going through a child's life as it is told by a child. This book may serve as a way for our young children to cope with their problems by knowing that there are children out there who overcome odds stacked up against them. Through grandma's faith, her brother's optimism and her long lost father's encouraging words, Naomi Leon is no longer limited through by her inhibitions. By the end of this chapter book, you will find yourself proud of Naomi Leon's courage to stand up against her troubled mother, and more importantly, her fear. Pam Ryan does a marvelous job of connecting cultures throughout this book, and gives us encouragement to become what we are capable of becoming--a brave Leon.

An easy, must read for all ages.

"Naomi Outlaw, you are a girl of great talent and many layers."(p. 242)

Becoming Naomi Leon has a connection that we can all share in some way. Naomi is a soft-spoken little girl living with her Great-Grandmother and little brother, Owen, in Lemon Tree, California. They live in a small travel trailer they call "Baby Beluga." She and her brother were left by their mother seven years ago to live with their "Gram." Naomi has a talent for carving her imaginative ideas from bars of soap into beautiful creations. She soon discovers where this talent comes from. Naomi also discovers the truth about her mother, Terri Lynn (a.k.a. Skyla), and why she left her children, why she only wants to take Naomi back to live with her, and the reasons why her father, Santiago Leon, has not seen them for years. She learns about where she came from and the culture buried inside her soul while searching for her father in Mexico. While in Mexico, Naomi finds out what family really means. And when she needed it the most, Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw found her voice.

I recommend this book to anyone who loves a story with warm family ties. I could not put it down.

Pam Munoz Ryan did a great job writing this book! As an aspiring teacher, Becoming Naomi Leon is definitely a book that I want to keep and put in my classroom library. It is definitely a heartwarming, and one of the best coming of age novels I have read so far. This book does a great job blending many different elements of life into an easy to read book.

The main character, Naomi, along with her brother live in a trailer park with their grandmother. Through the struggles Naomi faces with her mother suddenly appearing into the picture after seven years allows her to gain confidence and really own the skin she's in. This book would allow students who are going through divorce or students being raised by guardians other than their parents to relate to the characters. The book also provides some insight to the traditional Mexican culture by including details about a radish carving festival in Oaxaca, Mexico.

I love this book because it does such a great job allowing the reader to really connect with its characters. Multiple times throughout the book I found myself rooting for Naomi and wishing there was something I could do to help! This book is a must read!!! Becoming Naomi Leon captures the attention of the reader from the start and will have the hearts of readers at the end.

Becoming Naomi Leon is a captivating story about a little girl, left by her mother to live with her great grandmother. She lives with her brother and her Gram in a small trailer park in California. She is picked on at school by the boys because of her last name "Outlaw" and ironically can never defend herself until she builds up the courage from enlightening words handed down by her father, whom she meets towards the end of the story. Naomi's mother makes a surprise visit to the children after several years and wants to become a part of their lives. After an attempt to take Naomi with her, Naomi, her Gram, her little brother Owen and two neighbors, Fabiola and Bernardo uproot California to go to Mexico in search of her father to help them. The author takes the reader through the difficult trials of this young girls life. She learns more about herself in finding out about her parents. This book is a great read even for adults. I really enjoyed reading it.

I think this is a wonderful coming of age tale for young students. There are many students who are not in an ideal parenting situation with no one to really relate to, this story is perfect for showing there are many different kinds of families. Naomi goes from being a quiet girl who keeps to herself to someone who stands up for what she believes in and changes the course of her future. You also learn a lot about the Mexican culture in this book and get to see Naomi and her brother learn about the other half of their family. We get to learn more about Oaxaca art and their yearly festival. The setting, story and development of the main character make this a wonderful story for children and adults.

Becoming Naomi León written by Pam Muñoz Ryan is a wonderful contemporary realistic fiction novel. It is told in the first person through Naomi's eyes, as she deals and struggles with the burdens of being separated from her father, abandoned by her alcoholic mother, and then abused and threatened by her mother when she returns to try and take Naomi and use her for her selfish needs. All the struggles Naomi faces lead her to become a very intimidated person, but in the end the love in heart for her brother, grandmother, and father gives her the courage to finally speak out. By the end of the story Namoi has transformed into "a mouse with a lioness's voice." What makes this book so amazing is that there are many readers who can relate to this story, from the situations she faces, to the necessity to mature at a young age, to her culture, as well as the transformation she undergoes at throughout the novel. The story really touched me as well because as an older sister, I was able to feel a lot of the emotions she felt when it came to her younger brother; as far as watching out for a younger sibling and defending if needed, as well as being understanding, and having that really close bond. The novel also uses beautiful metaphors to describe the characters in the story, "a mother with a cat's claw, a father with a lion's heart, a great-grandmother with a bird's protective outstretched wings." Ryan did a great job creating a good book that easy for young children to read and understand.

Becoming Naomi Leon

Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw is a shy girl; she lives with her Grandmother and her brother Owen in Lemon Tree California. She likes to carves soap and make lists. One day her Mother shows up and her mother buy her clothes because her mother has been gone for seven years. Naomi and Owen don't recognize her. Her mother tries to take her to Las Vegas, but she didn't want to go. They take a trip to Mexico for Holiday vacation and try to find her father. When she found her father she had to go back to California with her grandmother and Owen.

I would like for people to read this book because it's a really good book for kids and also adults.

First off, this is an amazing book to read. I will be honest; I was force to read this book for one of my classes but ended up loving this book. When I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down and read it all in one day. The book is very addicting and you will want to keep reading to find out what will happen next. The book deals with issue many children goes through to this day but don't know how to deal with it. The basic of the story is this girl by the name of Naomi who is living with her great grandma and hasn't seen her mom for years and later in the story the mom comes back into her life from rehab but is still an alcoholic. I can see as a reader, that she slowly finding herself and how strong and gifted of a person she really is. This book is really inspirational for reading but also many can relate. Also the book open people mind to situation many kids are going through. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a great book and get lost into it I guaranteed this is one book will touch your heart.
PS: I hate Clive but read and find out why. =)

Naomi Leon's full name is Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw. This book chronicles a couple of months in Naomi's life in which her mother returns after abandoning the family, leaving Naomi and her brother Owen with their great-grandmother. Over the course of these two months, Naomi learns who she really is.

Naomi's brother Owen has some physical impairments and it was interesting to see how they dealt with school children teasing Owen, as well as his own mother not wanting him. The point can really be made about how we each have something different about us, and it hurts our feelings when people make fun of us, etc. Naomi's mother is alcoholic, and Naomi learns what that means and also what effects it carries into the life of the alcoholic and his or her family. I really think this is something both boys and girls will want to read, especially if they have a little background in the Spanish language and the Mexican culture.

Pam Munoz Ryan captures the reader's attention with scenarios that seem all to real in this day and age. She kept me wanting to read more. She brings to light issues some families face but confronts them from the view of a young girl. This book is a good book for young readers to get an understanding about what some families go through or gives them something they can relate to and not feel alone in the world.
Naomi's mother left her and her brother with her grandmother when they were very young. Her mother decides to just show up one day, after 7 years, and decides she just wants Naomi to come with her and her new boyfriend to live in another state. This turns into a custody battle and the adventure begins for Naomi and her new self discovery. This was a really awesome book and I definitely recommend it.

**SOME SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW**

This story is about a young girl, Naomi Outlaw, and her life in california with her little brother and grandmother. The story centers around the events that occur after Naomi is visited by her mother, who abandoned her as a child. We follow the young girl as she goes from being a quiet, somewhat outcast girl to being Naomi "the lion", a brave and proud Leon family member. This story is very culturally rich and shows a different way of life that some child readers may not be familiar with, while others may relate to very well. I was somewhat disappointed in this book. It did not inspire me or seem like a book that I would read to a class. Although there were a great number of life-changing events in the book, it still did not seem exciting or ground-breaking to the extent that kids would be intrigued and want to read more. Overall it was a good read which taught different cultural aspects, but if you're looking for a thrilling and exciting book for your class, this is not it.

Have you ever had to run away from your own mother, or had a great-grandma thaat was still alive? Well Naomi Leon has, and has a lot to deal with too, like having "the funniest last name in the universe" for one. Then there are her clothes (sewn in polyester by Gram (her great-grandma)), her difficulty speaking up, and her status at school as "nobody special."

But according to Gram, most problems can be overcome with positive thinking. Luckily,with Gram and her little brother, Owen, life at Avocado Acres Trailer Ranco is happy and peaceful. That is, until Naomi and Owen's mother reappears after seven years, stirring up all sorts of questions--and a whole lot of trouble. Soon Naomi finds herself on a whirlwind journey in a last-ditch effort to keep her family together. But will positive thinking be enough to save them?

Do you like books that are full of suspense and wonder (a book you just can't put down)? Or a book with a series of events? Well if you do, then Becoming Naomi Leon is a great book for you.

Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw makes lists for everything. She makes lists about things that are good and bad at the same time, like her mother showing up at their house and showering them with presents after abandoning them as toddlers; she makes lists about her worries, like wondering if her brother will ever "be right," or if they will find their father in time; she makes lists about things she's good at, like carving soap and making lists. But, living in Lemon Tree, California with her brother and grandmother for the last seven years has taught her one thing for sure: always keep a positive thought in your head.

Having dealt with the trauma of her mother abandoning them, Naomi struggles with selective mutism. Although no one mentions it but her hard-to-please mother, it would be a great story to share with your classroom for the simple reason that sometimes "quiet speakers" are dealing with bigger struggles than are realized. Even though it seems like such a simple task to "speak up," there are underlying reasons that make it very difficult.

Naomi's brother, Owen, also struggles with a disability. She describes it as physical disability, with his head "tilted to one side and scrunched down next to his shoulder; a permanent frog voice; and one of his legs shorter than the other one." His doctor dubs him a FLK, or Funny Looking Kid, but Naomi reminds us several times that, despite his appearance, Owen is smart as a whip. I think this is an exceptionally important lesson to teach in your classroom, particularly emphasizing that, upon his arrival in Mexico, it took him all of three seconds to find a friend to toss a ball around with. Our society puts so much emphasis on physical appearance, that women like Owen's mom want nothing to do with their own children. In reality, they're missing out on one of the best experiences of their life.

Throughout the book, quips are made from the children's mother about their disabilities, but, as a reader, they always leave a bad taste in your mouth. Her actions are never condoned and she is ultimately rejected as a positive character when the judge denies her parental rights in a court battle to get only Naomi (because the doctors have told the mother that Owen will never "look normal"). I have no criticism for the way physical disabilities are portrayed in this story and, in fact, applaud Pam Munoz Ryan on entwining her characters so that they are people instead of stereotypes.

"Esperanza Rising" was okay. It wasn't the best book I'd ever read, nor did it leave an indelible mark on my heart and mind. After reading it through I felt that author Pam Munoz Ryan was a fine n' dandy writer, but that it was probably unlikely that she'd produce a book that would really make me sit up and take notice. When I start reading a children's book with a mild prejudice already established in my mind (as there was when I picked up "Becoming Naomi Leon") it takes remarkably good writing to bash that prejudice into soft mushy pulp. And bash this book did. By its end I was flabbergasted. I went into this novel with the vague dread that it would read like so many other works of fiction that are ostensibly "good" for children. I worried that it would be beautifully written and dull as day old dishwater. Instead, it was interesting, bright, cheery, but with just enough reality and cynicism to make you feel that Naomi's fight was one worth battling out. In short, I've been completely seduced by "Becoming Naomi Leon". It is perhaps the underrated children's novel of 2004. Hands down.

Naomi begins her book with the chilling statement that she can now point out the exact moment that her sense of peace and security began to unravel like those cartoons where a dog wearing a sweater gets a string from his shirt caught in some way. "Pretty soon the poor dog is bare to its skin, shivering, and all that had kept it warm is nothing more than a bedraggled string". And it all began the night her mother came to town. Naomi had been living a nice quiet life with her great-grandmother (or just Gram, as she calls her) and her little brother Owen. Owen has a slight birth defect that affects his neck and voice, but otherwise he's pretty much a certified genius. Both kids were abandoned years ago by their wayward mama Terri Lynn (self-renamed as Skyla), who has just as randomly swung into town to see them. More exactly, to see Naomi. With the firm belief that she is the rightful mother of her child (Owen's physical condition jars with her), Skyla has every intention of grabbing her daughter and dragging her to Las Vegas to take care of her boyfriend's young daughter. Naomi's fright is understandable, but fortunately her Gram is a force to be reckoned with. And before our heroine knows it, she's whisked away to Mexico to briefly escape her lunatic mother and to find her missing father, wherever he may be.

Yeah, I know. It sounds a little heavy-handed. A mite bit unbelievable. A smidgen over-the-top. And with any other author, it would've been. Other reviewers of this book have complained, ludicrously, that Skyla is portrayed as almost too evil and that no such mother like this exists. Sure they do. They exist all the time. They just don't get very good press. And Skyla is beautifully tempered as a character. Some moments she's swimming in charm, buying her babies every pretty present she can think of. Other times she's slapping Naomi upside the face and making thinly disguised threats against Gram. What Ryan does to even out the more unwieldy plot elements, like these, is introduce Naomi's penchant for carving. The daughter of a carver, Naomi carves soft soaps when she can, creating doves, lions, and squirrels. This all comes to a head when she and her family travel to the fabulous (and very real) Oaxacan Night of the Radishes, where expert carvers converge to create large beautiful radishes into varying animal, biblical, and mythical scenes. Adding this detail of Naomi's personality to her otherwise soft-spoken self makes her a very real and understandable heroine.

To my mind, "Becoming Naomi Leon" whops "Esperanza Rising"'s butt. It's a book that will have you alternately gripping your seat, reading with deep intensity, and laughing at its good humor. Gran alone is worth the price of admission. For a surprisingly thoughtful, intelligent, and incredibly readable book (reading this aloud to kids would work incredibly well, methinks) choose "Naomi Leon" any day of the week. A book that promotes tolerance and wisdom.

Although the beginning of this book was a little slow for me, I advise everyone to keep reading! It gets better with every page until you don't even want to put it down for a second! Even as an older reader, this book had me on my toes! Becoming Naomi Leon is about a young girl who lives in a trailer park with her grandmother and younger brother, Owen. Naomi is just an average fifth grader who has trouble speaking up. One day, Naomi's mother, whom she hasn't seen since she was a baby, visits and it turns Naomi's world upside down. At times, this book can be difficult to read due to its mature nature and realistic plot. Often times, people read books as a way of escaping the world in which they live. This book is meant more for an audience that wants to relate and feel empathy with the characters within. This book is extremely relatable in many more ways then the obvious and would be perfect for an assigned reading for a 5th or 6th grade class. It is something students would find interesting and want to keep reading and would most definitely open up plenty of class discussion. This book is one of my most highly recommended children's novels!

Becoming Naomi Leon is a story of a girl who starts off not knowing who she is or what culture she came from. She isn't even sure on what last name to take for herself. She is content with her life living in Lemon Tree with her grandmother, but she often visualizes of her mother and father. One day her mother had showed to find her after seven years and tries to be in her life. She isn't sure what to think of her mom and her intentions but is happy to see her. After a few days she begins to question her mother's intentions and seems confused. Her mother had interrupted her life that she was content living in. But in the significance of it all, she started to learn about where she was originated. Things started going wrong, and the grandmother wanted to find Naomi's father so he could grant her custody. The rest of the book will need to be read to find out more. This book really was a heartwarming story, and I would recommend it for any child, or young adult. Even I never wanted to put the book down; I read it to the end.

Ryan, P.M. (2004). Becoming Naomi Leon. New York: Scholastic Press.

Becoming Naomi Leon is a Great book!
Gram really showed what it is to be a family. Naomi and Owen Have had a rough beginning but with Grams guidance and unconditional love she has created a home for them. They have grown up in Lemon Tree, California where they have a support group in the community. Suddenly, Skyla reappears turning Naomi and Owen's world upside down. Naomi and Owen are thrilled with their Mother's return they soon realize their mother is up to no good. Skyla wants to seperate the two and take Naomi to live with her and her boyfriend in Las Vegas. Gram can't let the two be separated so she sets out to search for Santiago, father of the children. They leave for Mexico where they find what they had been looking for. I love that through all the obstacles that Naomi goes through she finally finds her voice.

Naomi lives with her younger brother, Owen, and their grandmother in a trailer park in Lemon Tree, California. Naomi's grandmother has always been a mother to her since her real mother left her at a very young age. One day, Skyla, Naomi's mom, shows up to their home unannounced and wants to take Naomi to live with her, her boyfriend Clive, and Clive's daughter. Gram is completely against this idea and decides to take Naomi and Owen to Mexico to find their father in hopes that he will be able to help them not to have Skyla take Naomi away. Through the journey to search for her father, Naomi is finally able to find her voice. She discovers who she really is and more about her Mexican-American culture. This is such a great and inspiring story that is able to connect with readers on so many levels. This story also addresses cultural differences and tolerance for those with special needs.

This story is about a girl named Naomi Soledad Outlaw. She lives with her younger brother, Owen, and their great-grandmother. Naomi and Owen both call her gram. They live in Baby Beluga (Gram's trailer). Naomi and Owen have been left there by their mother, Terri Lynn. One day their mother comes back, who is now Skyla, to stay with them because her boyfriend had to go somewhere. After a while,

Becoming Naomi Leon is a story of two young children who were abandoned by their alcoholic mother at a young age and left to be raised by their positive thinking but equally tough great grandmother. Naomi, who narrates the story, shares the family's struggles when their mother comes to their trailer named Baby Beluga in Lemon Tree, California to break up this non-traditional but happy family. She not only shares the family's struggle to stay together but also shows the troubling time of adolensence struggling to grow from a child to a young woman. Throughout the novel we see Naomi transform from an awkwardly shy child to a young woman who speaks up and finds her own voice. Through this Naomi is able to relate to many other young readers going through the same tough time. Personally I can relate because I also grew up in an extended family and can also relate to the struggles of adolescence. Though this novel is simple and short it is a moving story to be enjoyed by many.

I loved the story it showed children that not everyone has that perfect family that are in all the other books. It would be good book for children not living with their parents or that have only one parent. The fact that I could relate to Naomi because I never knew much about my father made me want her to find her dad even more. Throughout the story you get to know Naomi, her younger brother Owen and their grandmother. Naomi is the narrator and explains that her mom left them with their grandmother and never came back. Out of nowhere their mother shows up making it seems as if she really wants to get to know her children. She actually has a plan to get custody of Naomi and move away with her boyfriend. The story has a lot of suspense. Will Naomi and Owen ever find their dad? Will their mom get custody? The story really had me on my toes. I strongly recommend this book.

When I saw the book Becoming Naomi Leon I wasn't sure what kind of story to expect. I was familiar with the author, but I couldn't recall exactly what her other book, Esperanza Rising, was about. From the moment I started reading the book I became very interested. The story is a bit odd, a girl who makes lists and carves things from soap, a boy who wears tape on his clothing to have a sense of security that everything is kept together, a great-grandmother who cares for these children; usually you hear of a grandmother, but a great-grandmother definitely an interesting twist. Pam Munoz Ryan unquestionably makes the reader feel as if they know the characters on a personal level and that they are right there watching as things are happening. This book is a wonderful book that not only children, but also adults can relate to in some way or be interested in. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

Becoming Naomi Leon - A wonderful, enlightening read! Naomi and her younger brother Owen live with their great-grandmother. Their mother has abandoned the children; while not interested in parenting, she revisits this family and attempts to reconnect with Naomi in order to facilitate her marriage to a new boyfriend. As the story develops Naomi discovers her father's family in Mexico and the reason for her aptitude as an artist. The reader's experience of the reintroduction of the main character to her cultural background is one of the most rewarding aspects of the book. The story is aptly named as the reader witnesses the evolution of a young girl's grasp on her identity.

My review is for the book Becoming Naomi Leon. It was written by Pam Munoz Ryan. The genre is realistic fiction. It takes time in the present time.
In Avocado Acres, California Naomi Leon, Owen, and Gram, live together. Then Naomi's mom, Skyla, shows up after 7 years and wants to take Naomi away. But Gram tries to stop her by going to court and running away to Mexico to find Naomi's dad. Will Skyla, Naomi, Owen, and dad get back together as a family? Well you have to wait to read the story and find out what happens.
Becoming Naomi Leon is about people trying to find their parents. Also she is brave enough to look for her dad and stand up to Skyla.
It is the top 10 is because most of our class really liked it. Also they thought it was interesting when Skyla wanted to take Naomi away. You will like it!
By Jasmine and Vivianna

This book is about a girl named Naomi Outlaw who's parents are divorced and she lives with her grandmother in a trailer park. They named their trailer baby beluga. After seven years Naomi and her brother Owen's mother comes back. She changes her name has a boyfriend and goes to rehab centers. Naomi's mother wants to run off to Las Vegas with her boyfriend stepdaughter and Naomi. Naomi doesn't want to go she wants to stay with her brother who has medical disability. They go to Mexico to find their father and meet family members they've never before. Naomi gets to become a Leon animal carver.

"Becoming Naomi Leon" (Scholastic 2004) by Pam Munoz Ryan is an inspirational work of fiction narrated by 11-year-old Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw who is struggling to find a voice in her world. She lives in a California trailer park with her younger brother Owen, who is dealing with the effects of a minor birth defect and her great-grandmother known affectionately as "Gram." Their mother left them in Gram's care after she realized two children were too much of a burden for her lifestyle and has never tried to contact the children. Naomi is a worried young girl who feels isolated from her fifth-grade classmates and spends much of her time in the school library and making lists in her notebook. Her greatest talent is craving soap into a variety of different animals, a skill she is told comes from her father. One day her mother, Terri Lynn, returns after a seven-year absence. Her behavior is erratic and unpredictable, and her sudden presence is exciting but turns out to be a constant disappointment to her children. Naomi soon learns of her mother's alcoholic background and her years of rehabilitation and halfway houses. When Terri Lynn tries to take Naomi back to Las Vegas to live with her and her boyfriend Clive, Grams makes the decision to flee to Mexico in order to find the children's father. She hopes that their father will sign a letter allowing Gram to be the official guardian of the children. Along the way Naomi rediscovers herself and the power of positive-thinking. She is exposed to a side of her cultural background she has never known and uncovers a strong voice deep within.

Overall the book was riveting and it is difficult not to be inspired by Naomi's journey of self-discovery. The book is moving but with just the right amount of humor to add life to the pages. Less than 250 pages and a reading level targeting grades 4-7, it was a relatively easy read and one which I found difficult to put down. The characters are intricately constructed and easily become images in your imagination. Especially exciting was Naomi's experience with the Mexican holiday festivals. The author's description is so vivid that it is almost as if I myself am sharing this moment with Naomi.

My one complaint is that it was not long enough!

This book is a MUST READ for any middle school student. You will not be disappointed!

Naomi is an eleven-year-old girl who lives with her grandma and her younger brother Owen, in Avacado Acres, Lemon Tree, California in a trailer named Baby Beluga. One day Naomi's mother, Skyla, comes back to take Naomi away to Las Vegas with her boyfriend Clive. Naomi doesn't want to go with her. Instead, she goes in search of her father, Santiago, (so her family won't be separated) in Oxaca, Mexico. Will Naomi succeed in her quest to find her father? You can find out in Becoming Naomi Leon!
Becoming Naomi Leon is a heart-warming family adventure. It's about Naomi and Owen's quest to find their father and keep their family united.
We would recommend this book to adventurous readers, ages nine to fourteen, and for some adults who can't put a book down!

Naoni Leon lived though a little bit of a tough and rough life, having to switch back and forth from caregiver to caregiver. She stuggles with being quiet in the begining and really had no voice because she would never speak up, for herself or anyone else. Towards the end she begans to find her voice through journaling and writting down her thoughts. She learns that she has to speak up people to know and understand her and to let people know that she doesnt want to live with her mother. She also found her voice throughout the story by doing carvings and paintings. The carvings and paintings were part of her culture and family traditions. Naomi grows up and learns lots of things through the story and really finds herself though all the differnt experiences. I alo liked how the story had happy and sad moments but it was kind of a depressing story to me.

The book Becoming Naomi Leon was really good. I especially like books that have to deal like with kids in problems,and this is what this book is about.

The main character is Naomi and she lives with her grandmother and little brother, she has never met her parents they left her since she was a little girl. Naomis mom comes to take her and her little brother away but what Naomi doent know is that the mother is a danger to her and brtother. So the grandmother and her neighbors and friends join together to protect Naoni and her brother. Then Naomi is all confused because she has never had the love of her parents and she wants to see how it feel to be loved. So in a way a part of her is saying go with your mom but another is saying dont iit is dangerous and your grandmother needs you. So she is all confused she ends up going on a journy to find her father. On that journey Naomi finds out who she and she learns who really loves her. So she finds out that she is a buetiful and intelegent girl, and even though she never had the love of her parents she allways had the love of her grandmother, brother ,and freinds.

Naomi always knew who she was but she was confused because she thought that she needed the love of her parents. Naomi is a very strong Character and she had a good head on her shoulders.

This book embarks on an astonishing journey from Lemon Tree, California through Oaxaca, Mexico. Naomi struggles to find the courage that she needs to save her family. Naomi lives in Lemon Tree with her brother Owen and her grandma in what is known as Baby Beluga. Naomi's comfortable living arrangements are abruptly halted when an unexpected visitor shows up on their front door. Naomi's courage is tested when she is put on the forefront of a life altering situation. Will Naomi find the courage that she needs to save her family? I welcome children and adults to come read this incredible book written by Pam Ryan Munoz. Becoming Naomi Leon is the recipient of the Pura Belpre Award.

The book Becoming Naomi Leon is by Pam Munoz Ryan. It takes place in Lemon Tree, California, U.S.A. and Oaxaca City, Oaxaca, Mexico in modern times.

For seven years Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw has been living with her little brother, Owen, and her great-grandmother. Then one day her mother shows up out of nowhere. She brings clothes for Naomi and a nice new bike for Owen. She tries to become Naomi's friend. One day she tells Naomi that she's taking her to Las Vegas with her boyfriend, Clive, and his daughter who's a little younger than Naomi. When Naomi refuses to go and Gram refuses to let Skyla (her mother) take her Skyla threatens to take it to court. Before she can, Gram does. Gram gets temporary custody and takes them to Oaxaca City, Oaxaca, Mexico. There they look for their father, but they don't know where he lives. They want him to write a letter to the judge that says he wants Gram to have custody. Will they be able to find him before they leave for the trial? Will Naomi never see Owen and Gram again?

One part that I liked for its suspense, though it made me very mad was when Skyla slapped Naomi across the face. Skyla slapped Naomi because she was refusing to go with her and wasn't doing what she said. Pam Munoz Ryan wrote, "It was such a hard slap that my head turned and snapped against my shoulder. I didn't have to look in a mirror to know the sting of her hand was perfectly imprinted. I felt it from inside out."

I loved this book a lot and give it five stars. It was great.

I would rate this book at five stars. Naomi's natural mother has come to take Naomi to Las Vegas with her and her boyfriend Clive. Before they can come get her, Naomi and her friends go to Mexico to find Naomi's father so that he can write a letter that says that he does not want Skyla to have Naomi or Owen. I gave this book a five star rating because it is very adventurous and quite thrilling. I would recommend this book to some one else because it is very exciting.

Naomi and her little brother live with their grandmother. When their mother drifts back into their lives with a very unpleasant boyfriend, the children avoid her by visiting relatives in Mexico. Once there, they search for Naomi's father, hoping that he will sign custody over to Naomi's grandmother. Meeting her family helps Naomi learn more about why she is the way she is and to learn to celebrate her rich heritage.

Keep some kleenex handy.

Have you ever had a book that made you feel that you were actually the character ? Well I have a book for you . Becoming Naomi Leon is a great story of a little girl who is ten years old that lives with her wonderful grandmother Gram who would go to the ends of the earth for Naomi and her brother Owen . Following Naomi's story makes you feel closer to the character and her family . This book is for all the ages . It takes a little girl who has no voice and doesn't know who she is and brings her into a place of knowing who she is as a person , and what she has to offer the world . SPOLIER Alert : Naomi meets her father and finds out that her and her dad are the same person ! He also likes to carve things and him and Naomi end up having a connection with each other which gives Naomi courage in the end to stand up to her mother . I would definetly buy this book for your children or yourself and read it . It's a great book to read and its a page turner , you will want to know more about this character .

A story of growing up and finding yourself in the process. This story is centered around the main character Naomi Leon. She is an eleven year old girl who lives with her little brother, which you find out has special needs, and her grandmother. Her grandmother has raised both of them, very well, their whole lives. But when their mother and her boyfriend comes into the picture her world is turned upside down. However, through all of this and more she finds herself and defines herself. This is a great story for both kids and adults. For anyone who has found them self, and for those still figuring everything out.

Pam Muñoz Ryan's, Becoming Naomi León, is a contempory realistic fiction that tells of a young girl's attempts to find out who she is. Set in a small town Naomi struggles with abandonment, manipulation, and a journey that takes her to another country in order for her to connect with a part of her family she doesn't even know.
This is not a book for younger children and even with 9 -11 year olds; there are topics that parents should be willing to address. Some areas include child abandonment, children with special needs, and cultural bias to name a few. It is well written and was enjoyable to read.

I think it was a excellent book. I think it was a five star book. Naomi goes on a journey to find her father,and has a little trouble on the way. I thought it had a good backround to it. The reason I loved it was because it had a story with-in the story. I suggest this book to anyone. That is if you like to wait for the surprise. I recommended this book to anyone. It even has a little humor,and I'm sure you'll like it.

LOVED! LOVED! Reading this book. From the moment I picked it up to read it, I could not put it down. By far one of the best children's book I've ever read. This book deals with a lot of family and culture, which goes perfect to show students that there is no ideal parent situation. Naomi and her little brother are being raised by their grandmother, because parents divorced and mom abandoned them. Also, the Mexican Culture is discussed in the book which Naomi and her brother come to learn a lot about.

I think this book can relate to many young girls. Some girls have difficulties coming out of their comfort zone, and in this book it follows a young girl named Naomi through some hard times she is having. You also see how Naomi changes with the problems her and her family are facing. Many emotions come to play when her mother returns out of nowhere to see her and her brother, Owen after many years of being away. As you read this book, you really see how Naomi matures and finds herself at a young age. I thought this story was very good and it kept my attention. I think girls would enjoy reading this book.

Becoming Naomi Leon is a wonderful book. When I first started reading it I was a little apprehensive becuase I am in college and I honestly thought it was a little kid book. I was wrong. Right away I knew I was in trouble because I was having a hard time putting it down. I made the mistake of beginning it at night and I ended up reading it through the night and finishing it the next morning. It is about a little girl who finds the courage to stand up for herself and what she believes in, but not before going through some very hard times. She has inspired me to step out of my shell and say what is important to me.

I couldn't put this book down. It takes the bull by the horns in dealing with family dysfunction. The alcoholic abusive mother bestows crumbs of kindness which add to the confusion of the children. This is an incredibly engaging and empowering book. This is a good read for anyone who has to deal with dysfunction. Actually, this is a great read for all.

Becoming Naomi Leon is an excellent children's book. What I like most is that children get to see remarkable self growth in the main character. To me the growth and exploration of young children finding out who they are is a beautiful and difficult process, and this isn't seen anywhere better than in this story.
Though the book addresses some tough issues, like alcoholism and a bad mother, I think this is a great book to facilitate an open discussion about these topics with children as well as having them see self discovery in another child.

I loved this book! Becoming Naomi Leon is a book that should be on every reading list across the United States for Fifth graders and up. This book addresses the typical preteen problems such as clothing, popularity, teasing, and physical appearance. Pam Munoz Ryan does not stop there however; she addresses things such as poverty, absent parents, alcoholism, and not so ordinary families. The main character lives with her great-grandmother and her physically disabled brother, until the mother who has been absent for the last seven years suddenly shows up. This story is so touching and has the ability to expose young minds to things in the world that they don't know about, or give strength to those who can relate through experience. Personally, I also enjoyed reading about Naomi Leon's journey to discover her Mexican heritage and accept who she is. I cannot fully express how much I recommend this book.

Eleven-year-old Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw doesn't like to talk. What is she supposed to say? Abandoned by her parents at age four and raised by her great-grandmother, Naomi is a mixture of Oklahoman and Mexican, but is not able to understand even a word of Spanish--although her new best friend, Blanca, informs her that "Leon" means "lion" and "Soledad is some big saint in Mexico" (p. 54). All these years, her heritage, although with her daily, has escaped her. Who knew? Not Naomi.

Then Naomi's mother, Skyla, returns, and life becomes chaotic. At first, Skyla claims to want a relationship with Naomi and her brother, but can her sudden burst of sentimentality be trusted? Naomi dreams that Skyla has found herself and truly wants to wear mother/daughter outfits and build a family. But if that is true, why hasn't she been showering presents upon Owen, Naomi's physically-disabled brother, as she has been doing for Naomi since she resurfaced in their lives?

Ryan, an award-winning author, gives readers permission to ask the question some may think is silly: Who am I? BECOMING NAOMI LEON demonstrates that who a person is, in fact, is more--much more--than just her name.

Pura Belpre Award Honor Book, 2006

Book Sense Book of the Year Award Honor Book, 2005

SCBA Book Award Nominee, 2005

Schneider Family Middle-School Book Award Winner, 2005

Skipping Stones Honor Awards Winner, 2005

Americas Award-Commended, 2004

Parent's Choice Award-Silver, 2004

Tomas Rivera Mexican American Children's Book Award Winner, 2004

Reviewed by: Mechele R. Dillard

The main character and her brother have to examine their emotions when their mother re-enters their lives after being away for most of their lives. Soap carvings and tape help them handle the stresses of their young lives. As the book progresses Naomi finds her voice. I think this is a great chapter book for children that feel they are different or shy and can improve their self confidence. I enjoyed the book's character development, their vacation in Mexico, and the court appearance at the end of the book.

What a great upbeat book that still covers the struggles of a child of a divorced family, living in poverty, and being of a mixed race. Great great read with a great ending that wasn't to unbelievable. It left you with a good feeling even though the struggles of the children were very real. Great life lessons as well as cultural lessons in this book.

Becoming Naomi Leon is a very inspirational book about a close-knit family consiting of Naomi, Owen (her brother) and great grandmother. The three of them seem happy living in a California trailer park UNTIL Naomi and Owen's alcoholic mother reappears. She is only interested in Naomi living with her and her boyfriend to become their personal babysitter. In hopes to keep the family together, they seek out Naomi and Owen's biological father in Mexico. They find love, loyalty and hope for a bright future. This is a wonderful book about loyalty and compassion for the important people in our lives. It's a must read!!

I would give this book a great five stars. This is a good book if you like Spanish culture. It is a really great book. It is a very good book and it has a lot of Spanish words and phrases. Yes,I would recommend this book to someone else because it is a really good book. If you like Spanish culture you will enjoy this book.

Becoming Naomi Leon

Becoming Naomi Leon is a really great book! The book deals with a young girl named Naomi and her younger brother, Owen. They both follow their instincts on all the many twists and turns in the story. This book is worth your time to read!

In the beginning of the story, Naomi and Owen live with their Grandma in a trailer park. Suddenly, their mother, Skyla, shows up after 7 years acting like nothing happened. Grandma Maria is suspicious on the real reason Skyla is back. Grandma knows Skyla wouldn't come back, so there must be a catch! Naomi and Owen first love their mother's company, but later on things start to change. They dread to be around her-but why?

This book has you reading until the very last word! Find out more as all the secrets unravel. You'll definitely enjoy the brave, young girl, Naomi Leon!

You will want to keep reading this fantástico book. You won't even want to stop until you get to the satisfying end. When you're done you might even be inspired to learn some soap carving. We did!
This book is about Naomi Soledad León Outlaw. Even though her name means lion, she is as shy as a mouse and a talented carver. In this story her mother returns from a 7-year break. We learn that her mother is not what she seems. It is hard for Naomi to decide if she's a good mom or not. Naomi ends up learning about her Mexican heritage and finding hope about where she belongs.
You will be ecstatic when you reach the end of this page-turning exciting adventure.

Becoming Naomi León is a nicely written children's book but with an average story. It is an easy read for kids and has several tough words. I think the drama involving the mother and the step-father is bit too heavy (I actually thought the story was leading to sexual abuse but dismissed the idea because it's a children's book, for goodness sake.) and should have been avoided. I don't appreciate the author's usage of the word "retard" which was blurted out by a kid in the book (it only appears once, that's it). This is the first time I've read a book that involves soap carving and the likes. Although the family is Spanish and lives in California, I can't help but feel the quality, which is well above the norm, of the conversations to be unrealistic, considering the socioeconomic background of the family. It's not intended to be a stereotypical remark but rather the fact of life. I am also surprised that only very little of Spanish words are used in the book. The main character Naomi León, who is eleven years old and selectively mute, seems to be awfully precocious; the same goes for her brother. As for the story, it's nothing new. Overall, I give Becoming Naomi León a rating of `3' out of `5' because it is a fair read and is nothing special.

I give this book a 5 stars! Naomi is happy until an unexpected visitor sends her on a wild goose

chase. It is a very good book on a girl who needs to find her father. If you like award winners here's

YOUR book . Read it! It's the best!!!!!

4 stars! Becoming Naomi Leon was a wonderful book that deals with family and culture. I reccomend it for all ages. One thing I did not like about it was that the author should have made it longer, other than that it was wonderful.

Becoming Naomi Leon is a great book. Pam Munoz Ryan's best written book, Becoming Naomi Leon, covers modern topics like alcoholism, broken families, and bi-cultural children. She has woven them together to create a story that's not too sad and not too sweet. The children's loving grandmother exposes them to Mexico's culture as they participate in the radish carving contest, find their long-lost father, and elude their dangerous mother. If you're in need of a interesting and culturally enriching read, definitely look here.

It is charming and humorous writing complimenting the deft tension for the peril of family separation. It deserves recognition as fine children's literature.

The resolution is fine--I would have preferred a showdown with Skyla in Oaxaca!

We read this book only because it was a required assignment for my son's summer reading list. I felt the subject matter was a little deep and mature for a 10 year old, as I skimmed it over before he read it.
Thankfully, I had looked at it first. He was very upset and disturbed by the dysfunction in the family, really frightened. I am a single mom raising my son with no assistance from his father, and the storyline of the predatory mother and disengaged father really upset him.
Frankly, I do not think my son's school should be assigning him a book which features an alcoholic, abusive parental figure. It's a little too intense for a 10 year old. Also, my nephew is autistic, so the whole storyline with the brother being vulnerable to explotation upset my son, too.
An older child would relate better to the theme of finding one's self and sense of being and forging non-traditional family bonds.

What I would not give for a nice, peaceful nature story on the assigned reading list. If he wants to experience this kind of drama, my son could just watch "Jerry Springer."

If your child is going to read this book, by choice or because it is assigned, then understand that some of these themes are emotional landmines that need to be talked out with a parent.

This is a good book because the author described it very good. All of her books are great. It's about a girl and her brother who go and try to find their dad and find out who they really are. Naomi starts out thinking she is one way and by the end of the story she thinks differently. This story is about a dysfunctional family being reunited with their dad. If you like this book then try Esperanza Rising by the same author.

Three stars!! Becoming Naomi leon is a great book. Its a heart-warming story about a girl who finds herself and her family.Pam munoz Ryan did great! the book was awesome although i think she ended it too soon,and should have made it longer; otherwise it was great.

This book is about Naomi Leon having to endure a lot as a young child living with her brother and grandma. She had tough obstacles to face but overcame them all and eventually was united with someone who truly loved her. This book teaches adolescence to never giver up even tough things may not be going as smooth as you would want them to.

At first speaking in a tiny voice and dealing with bullying, Naomi discovers her roots, talents and strengths. An inspiring book, beautifully written, it also has a character who keeps a writing notebook that includes lists of words that strike her as worth knowing. Perfect as a chapter book "touchstone text!"

Lovely, sensitive treatment of young girl coming to terms with an unsuitable and unstable mother. I especially like the

realistic fact that the child still cares for her mother but knows how to protect herself and who to trust (grandma). Should be in every school library.

I have read this book at least three times and for me, it never gets old. It was moving, beautifully written, and a great book for all ages. I loved how it was realistic, but had a sense of fun and fantasy. Overall, it was AMAZING!!!!!

Naomi Leon's mother is an alcoholic who goes in and out of institutions. She leaves Naomi and her brother alone for a weekend to go shopping when they are toddlers. She abandons them thereafter for seven years with no contact. She shows up abruptly one day and tells her son, who has some birth defects, that he is a freak. She wants to take Naomi with her in a move to Las Vegas so she can collect support from the state, but won't take her son. How many mothers do you know who are this evil? This book is a typical product of the politically correct American book publishing industry, pushing their usual message: parents can be detrimental to kids, feelings of hate towards your parents can be normal, and "alternative" families are often better. The book adds a trip to Mexico to escape the mother to fit in with the publishers' demand for alternative, non-Western, "authentic" experiences. I don't know any kids who like being hit over the head repeatedly with these sorts of obvious political messages. Is it any wonder that the British publishing industry -- which publishes J.K. Rowling, Philip Pullman, Eva Ibbotson, etc. etc. etc. -- has far outstripped us in producing books that kids actually want to read?

As an adult, I couldn't put this book down. It has a really good story. There is no violence or anything a young adult should not be reading but it does have a good plot. I would recommend it highly. A perk is the references to the Hispanic culture and the Festival of the Radishes in Mexico.

Eleven-year-old Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw doesn't like to talk. What is she supposed to say? Abandoned by her parents at age four and raised by her great-grandmother, Naomi is a mixture of Oklahoman and Mexican, but is not able to understand even a word of Spanish--although her new best friend, Blanca, informs her that "Leon" means "lion" and "Soledad is some big saint in Mexico" (p. 54). All these years, her heritage, although with her daily, has escaped her. Who knew? Not Naomi.

Then Naomi's mother, Skyla, returns, and life becomes chaotic. At first, Skyla claims to want a relationship with Naomi and her brother, but can her sudden burst of sentimentality be trusted? Naomi dreams that Skyla has found herself and truly wants to wear mother/daughter outfits and build a family. But if that is true, why hasn't she been showering presents upon Owen, Naomi's physically-disabled brother, as she has been doing for Naomi since she resurfaced in their lives?

Ryan, an award-winning author, gives readers permission to ask the question some may think is silly: Who am I? BECOMING NAOMI LEON demonstrates that who a person is, in fact, is more--much more--than just her name.

Pura Belpre Award Honor Book, 2006

Book Sense Book of the Year Award Honor Book, 2005

SCBA Book Award Nominee, 2005

Schneider Family Middle-School Book Award Winner, 2005

Skipping Stones Honor Awards Winner, 2005

Americas Award-Commended, 2004

Parent's Choice Award-Silver, 2004

Tomas Rivera Mexican American Children's Book Award Winner, 2004

Reviewed by: Mechele R. Dillard

LOVED! LOVED! Reading this book. From the moment I picked it up to read it, I could not put it down. By far one of the best children's book I've ever read. This book deals with a lot of family and culture, which goes perfect to show students that there is no ideal parent situation. Naomi and her little brother are being raised by their grandmother, because parents divorced and mom abandoned them. Also, the Mexican Culture is discussed in the book which Naomi and her brother come to learn a lot about.