Common Sense Media Review
By Monica Encarnacion
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fun spin-off tale of luchadores blends English, Spanish.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
TRAINING DAY: EL TORO & FRIENDS is a fun and action-packed story, a spin-off tale about our favorite luchador (wrestler), El Toro. This time he dreads his training day for an upcoming match. His energetic coach, Kooky Dooky, uses his signature silliness and unwavering encouragement to motivate El Toro, teaching him the importance of practice and overcoming challenges.
Is It Any Good?
Delightful and action-packed, this early reader graphic novel celebrates Mexican American culture and boasts a vibrant blend of action, humor, and cultural references, making it a delightful read. Training Day: El Toro & Friends includes loads of Spanish vocabulary and phrases that are sprinkled throughout in purple ink, making them easy to read and sparking an interest in language learning. Plenty of context clues make it easy to follow even when you don't know the language. Raúl the Third's signature wild imagination bursts from the pages. Elaine Bay's bright, comic book-style colors perfectly complement the action. Perfect for fans of Elephant & Piggie, comic book fans, and kids looking to practice Spanish and English.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how El Toro's training prepares him for the big match in Training Day: El Toro & Friends. Can you think of a time when you had to practice and prepare for a big event? How did you prepare?
Talk about times when you didn't feel like doing something and how you pushed through it. How does El Toro push through and show perseverance? Why is that an important character strength?
How is Kooky Dooky a good friend to El Toro? How does Kooky Dooky help motivate El Toro? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you? How did they help?
Have you ever watched a wrestling match? Research lucha libre together! How does it differ from other types of wrestling?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Raul the Third
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Book Characters , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Versify
- Publication date : April 4, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 6 - 10
- Number of pages : 56
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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