In the pueblo of Palenque in Colombia, hardly anybody knows how to read. Curious about the letters her older sister Gina receives from a young doctor each month - letters that she is sure contain promises of love - one young girl makes a decision that will change her life, and the lives of every child in the pueblo, forever. With the help of Senor Velandia, the owner of the village shop, she will slowly unlock the letters of the alphabet and discover the magic of reading. And soon she will make a discovery that is more miraculous still - that letters are literally all around her . . .

When one young girl makes the decision to learn to read, it changes her life forever.

About the Author
Irene Vasco is an award-winning Colombian author. In 2021, she was recognised by the Colombian Ministry of Education for a lifetime of work devoted to education. Juan Palomino is Mexican artist and academic. Among his many awards are the fourth Iberoamerican Catalog of Illustration, the Bologna Children's Book Fair International Illustration Award, and a Golden Apple from the Biennial of Illustration Bratislava. Lawrence Schimel is a Spanish/English author and translator who has published over 120 books. His picture books have won a Crystal Kite Award, a White Raven, and have been chosen three times for IBBY'S Outstanding Books for Young Readers with Disabilities.

Reviews

"Textured illustrations utilize rich colors and fine details to depict the transformative power of reading through the story of a little girl whose older sister receives frequent letters from a doctor who once visited their village."-Foreword Reviews

"Vasco's narrative reminds readers that even in the face of lost connections, the joy of reading can light the way to a brighter future."-Kirkus Reviews

"The earth- and jewel-toned illustrations are digitally rendered providing a soothing and welcoming backdrop to the important message this story delivers - the power and joy of reading is meant to be experienced by ourselves and shared with others."-Youth Services Book Review

"Letters in Charcoal is a remarkable book. The clarity and simplicity of the story, coupled with the use of bold colours and beautiful patterns by illustrator Palomino, make this children's book a little gem with a social conscience. A must-read."-The Morning Star

Book Information
ISBN 9781915244512
Author Irene Vasco
Format Hardback
Page Count 32
Imprint Lantana Publishing
Publisher Lantana Publishing