Bella & Chantey: Mama Wants a Blue Mushroom is a quirky jungle adventure with a heartwarming twist. It’s the story of Bella, a determined little pig, and her macaw sidekick, Chantey, as they embark on a mission to find a special blue mushroom for Bella’s mother’s birthday. The journey takes them through the lush, mysterious rainforest of the Ngäbe-Buglé Comarca, past a grumpy black panther, and into the fantastical Land of Mushrooms. Along the way, they encounter colorful creatures, tricky riddles, and challenges that test their courage.

What I loved most about this children’s book was its charm. Bella’s personality shines through, especially with her dramatic “oh dear” moments. Like when she nervously tackles a suspension bridge blindfolded or builds a raft to cross a river because she can’t swim, each scene feels relatable and funny in that “overcoming your fears” kind of way. Chantey’s witty remarks, like reminding Bella to stop eating every mushroom in sight, add just the right amount of humor. It’s these little interactions that make their friendship feel so real and delightful.

The illustrations by César Meléndez absolutely stole the show for me. The rainforest scenes, with vibrant plants and exotic animals like giant anteaters and purple snakes, are nothing short of magical. The pages where they finally find the indigo milk cap mushroom, with its vivid blue “bleeding” juice, are amazing. The art pulls you into this lush world and adds so much depth to the story. Honestly, I found myself flipping back just to soak it all in again.

One thing that caught me by surprise was how the story introduced cultural elements, like the reference to Urracá, a Ngäbe warrior. It’s such a thoughtful way to teach kids about history while keeping the tone light and adventurous. Plus, there’s a handy mushroom facts section at the end, which is both fun and educational. Did you know some mushrooms glow in the dark? It’s clear that the author wanted this book to be more than just a story. It’s a window into the beauty of Panama’s rainforest and the importance of respecting nature. What makes this book even more special is that it’s a bilingual story, with text in both English and Spanish, making it a fantastic way for kids to learn or enjoy two languages while diving into Bella and Chantey’s adventure.

I think this picture book is a gem. It’s perfect for kids who love adventure and animals, and it’s a great pick for parents who want a story that sparks curiosity about the environment and other cultures. I’d recommend it for bedtime reading or as a fun gift for young explorers.

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BSRCVF16