Itzel and the Ocelot

by Rachel Katstaller

Overview

A lyrical picture book inspired by a traditional Central American Indigenous story with an environmental theme. Itzel loves to hear her nana tell the story about the giant snake that must be awakened to bring the rain. But most people no longer believe in the snake, so it has retreated. And now Itzel and her nana, and all the creatures of the jungle, are desperate for rain for their crops. So Itzel decides she must find and awaken the snake herself. Though she sets out in the night alone, Itzel is soon joined by an ocelot and other jungle creatures in need of rain. But will their search be in vain? Kids who travel with Itzel deep into the nighttime jungle will not soon forget the amazing journey.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781525310492
Publisher:	Kids Can Press, Limited
Publication date:	06/07/2022
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	123 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.
Age Range:	3 - 7 Years

About the Author

Rachel Katstaller is a children’s book illustrator from El Salvador, a tiny country in the tropics of Central America. She now lives and works in a studio perched in the Austrian Alps, where she daydreams about eating croissants in Paris. Her cat, Hemingway, was named after a famous writer who was once mentored by Gertrude Stein.

Editorial Reviews

An inspiring adventure.—Kirkus Reviews

This story encourages readers to hold dear to stories and tales of the past, as they may just be the key to the future.—Children's Literature

Recommended as an addition to a library's shelves of tales from around the world.—CM Magazine

From the Publisher

2022-03-30
A tenacious child finds strength in the jungle when her family needs help.

Itzel, a brown-skinned girl, lives with her nana on the edge of a Salvadoran jungle. Severe drought threatens Itzel’s way of life, and Itzel’s nana explains that the giant snake who has been responsible for bringing the rainy season down from the hills has returned to where it was born. Determined to find and awaken the giant snake, Itzel leaves the house while her nana sleeps and begins her search. Along the way, Itzel meets and teams up with the titular Ocelot, who is also thirsty and willing to help with the search. The pair encounter other jungle critters who, desperate for water, join the effort. The situation looks grim when they reach the end of their journey and find only more arid land. Disappointment gives way to rushing water when a hopeless Itzel finally meets the giant snake. A lesson in self-determination and a nod to climate change and the impact of passionate individuals, Itzel’s story also reminds readers of the power of groups working toward a common goal. Bold blocks of color and playful illustrations will captivate. Spanish and Nawat (one of the Indigenous languages of El Salvador) vocabulary is embedded in the story. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

An inspiring adventure. (glossary, author's note) (Picture book. 4-8)

Kirkus Reviews