Award-winning children’s book publisher Cuento de Luz announces plans for its newest title, Juanita, in both English and Spanish. Inspired by a true story, author Lola Walder takes readers on a journey through the protagonist’s imagination – along with traditions, cultures and people of the beautiful country of Guatemala – to create the tale of Juanita. Following Cuento de Luz’s common theme of imagination, love and family, the story inspires readers to acknowledge the importance of family values, traditions, and helping others.
The Story
Juanita lives in Santa Catarina Palopó, a pretty, quaint village in Guatemala filled with views of beautiful lakes, waterfalls, mountains and three huge volcanoes. Juanita spends her days helping her family weave huipiles, a square piece of cloth with a hole in the center that Guatemalan women and girls often wear as a blouse made up of silk, wool, and cotton thread. Juanita also enjoys cooking her favorite meal a Guatemalan staple, corn tortillas, for her family.
At night, when the sun clears the way for the moon to shine bright, Juanita runs onto the roof of the house for her nighttime routine: counting stars. The sky is so clear she could almost touch it. One day, Juanita’s mom becomes very ill, and she cannot work at her loom. Juanita wants to help but does not know how to. It appears the sky has been listening to her, and has a big surprise in store for her.
Evaluation comments:
“This is the story of a little girl living in Guatemala and I like how the author takes the reader on a journey all about the girl’s traditions, culture and into the village life of her community.”
“I like how the book explains new vocabulary and explores family values.”
“Inspirational and fun to read. The illustrations are wonderful and bring the story to life.”
“I love that children will learn about the Guatemalan culture.”
“Beautifully written.”
“This book is set in Guatemala and captures the loveliness and culture of the country.”
“I like the Author’s Note, which provides more information about the country.”
“The illustrations are charming and capture the visual beauty of Guatemala.”