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The Squirrel Who Loved Books – O Esquilo Que Amava Livros
Isabel Ricardo’s The Squirrel Who Loved Books is a sweet, bilingual tale about an unusually book-obsessed squirrel named Chesty (or Saltarico in Portuguese) and a Portuguese boy named John (João), who is struggling with homesickness after moving to Boston. Set primarily in the lush Boston Public Garden, the story unfolds around the unlikely but heartwarming friendship between the two. Chesty is no ordinary squirrel—he steals books from park visitors, always leaving an acorn or nut in return, until he discovers something far more rewarding: sharing stories and connection. Through their bond, both characters learn about empathy, culture, and the magic of storytelling.
I really enjoyed how playful and imaginative the writing was. Ricardo has a gift for wrapping meaningful themes in whimsical, colorful packaging. There’s an innocence to the narrative, but it’s never too cutesy. I cracked a smile more than once, especially during the squirrel’s mischievous book heists and his nut-throwing prank on the mean dog. The fact that the squirrel ends up with his own treasured book and even visits the Boston Public Library hit me right in my bookworm heart. The way the story folds in themes like immigration, bilingualism, loneliness, and curiosity without being heavy-handed is something I really liked.
The story leans into a lovely kind of idealism, like when the whole city starts leaving books out for the squirrels. It’s whimsical and full of heart, exactly the kind of joyful imagination that makes children’s books so magical. It embraces its message with sincerity, and that’s part of its charm. The bilingual format is a lovely touch, too. It’s not just practical for learning languages, it feels like an echo of the book’s deeper message: different cultures and creatures can connect through stories. Also, the illustrations help sell the emotional beats and playful tone of the book, although the style changes from scene to scene.
The Squirrel Who Loved Books is a delightful and feel-good story that would be a perfect read for children, bilingual families, or even nostalgic adults who still believe in the wonder of books. It’s cozy. It’s thoughtful. It reminds us that even the smallest creatures can feel big things.
Pages: 93 | ISBN : 1962185559
Living With the Characters
The Adventurers and the Enigma of the Lagoon follows four friends as they head to Óbidos Lagoon in Portugal for a camping trip, who end up on a suspenseful journey to unravel a series of suspicious incidents surrounding a historical legend. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The plot for this book was already in my mind. The ADVENTURERS would camp in three lagoons in central Portugal and then one of them would be kidnapped during the night and taken to Leiria Castle. However, when I arrived at Óbidos Lagoon, as I always go to the places where the stories will take place, I was surprised by those noises in the lagoon, I heard the story of the underwater people and the plot changed completely. I had to forget all about the previous one and leave it for the next volume, the 5th (The Adventurers in the Lost Labyrinth), and create a different one. So, this adventure took place entirely in the charming little town of Óbidos and its lagoon, the largest freshwater and saltwater lagoon in Europe.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I always have a lot of fun during the entire process of writing these books, living with the characters, but I laughed a lot writing the scene in which Tony hits the bandit Margarido on the head with a bucket and puts a fish in his mouth so he won’t scream for help.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
During the research for this book, I was really surprised by the legend of the underwater people from the Óbidos Lagoon. As soon as I heard it, I had to include it in the plot.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The ADVENTURERS have many adventures ahead of them, travelling from north to south across the country, always with exciting adventures, thrilling plots, and a touch of history, as Portugal has a very rich history, in events and characters. It is the oldest nation in Europe to have defined borders. There are currently 16 volumes in the series. The next one is set on Berlengas Island, and its plot is linked to the legend of the treasure of a pirate, Captain Kidd.
Author Links: GoodReads | Isabel Ricardo | Facebook | SerieOsAventureiros | Website | Amazon
Then something happens in the dead of night: footsteps wandering nearby, strange sounds in the lagoon whose origin no one can trace, and a mysterious sight. Do these events have to do with “shrews”, underwater men, a local legend? Determined not to be intimidated, THE ADVENTURERS devise an audacious plan to unravel the suspicious incidents they witness. What strange mystery does Óbidos Lagoon hide?
Volume one and two in the ADVENTURERS series, The Adventurers and the Treasure Cave and The Adventurers and the Underground River, are Literary Titan Book Award winners – Four Stars/ Silver Award.
The Adventurers and the Enigma of the Lagoon
This book is a delightful mix of mystery, history, and good old-fashioned adventure. It follows four kids, Bea, Chris, Tony, and Daniel, plus Jack, a talkative, mischief-loving crow, as they head to Óbidos Lagoon in Portugal for a camping trip. What begins as a fun getaway quickly morphs into a suspenseful journey involving odd nighttime conversations, historical legends, sneaky strangers, and a whole lot of curiosity. With its blend of real locations, local folklore, and fast-paced action, The Adventurers and the Enigma of the Lagoon feels both grounded and fantastical.
What really pulled me in was the charm of the characters, especially Jack the crow. His goofy lines like “Shoo, pests! Shoo!” and “Well, whaddya know?” gave the story so much life. The dynamic between the kids was warm and familiar, with snarky sibling comments, inside jokes, and all the awkward chaos of real friendships. One of my favorite early moments is when Jack mimics the train whistle and causes such a ruckus that passengers switch train cars. That’s the kind of energy this book carries, playful and slightly unhinged in the best way.
I also appreciated how rooted the story is in the setting. The descriptions of Óbidos are just beautiful, like when Bea exclaims, “I’ll come and live here one day! I’m in love!” I shared the same sentiment. The castle, the winding streets, the lagoon, it all feels vivid and alive. Plus, the historical facts sprinkled throughout (like the tale of Afonso Henriques and the Traitor’s Gate) are fascinating without ever being dry. It’s clear the author knows and loves this place deeply. That passion is contagious.
The mystery itself, while not wildly complex, is satisfying. There are shady adults, missing items, whispers in the night, and even a bit of environmental commentary on lagoon pollution. I wouldn’t say it had me on the edge of my seat, but I was definitely eager to find out what the deal was with Margarido and the weird noises at night. It’s a mystery more about atmosphere and tension than plot twists, which works for a younger or middle-grade audience.
The Adventurers and the Enigma of the Lagoon is fun and wholesome without being boring, adventurous without being reckless, and smart without being preachy. If you like The Famous Five or Nancy Drew, but with a European twist and a slightly more magical bird, this is right up your alley. I’d recommend it to kids around 9–13, families reading together, or anyone who enjoys lighthearted adventures in charming places.
Pages: 181 | ISBN : 1962185478
The Clumsy Little Bat
In the enchanting setting of Rainbow Grove, nestled within a mountain cave, resides a bat family in Isabel Ricardo’s delightful children’s book, The Clumsy Little Bat. The story centers around Frederica, an endearing yet notably clumsy young bat. Despite her earnest efforts to master the art of flying like her kin, Frederica’s coordination consistently fails her. Hanging upside down, as her family does, proves equally challenging, leading to frequent falls and mishaps, much to the frustration of her relatives. Frederica’s sense of isolation intensifies as her family struggles to understand her plight. Determined to find someone who shares her predicament, she embarks on a solo adventure to locate her grandfather, whom she discovers shares her clumsiness.
The narrative poses compelling questions: Can Frederica navigate her way alone? Will she successfully reunite with her grandfather? Frederica’s relentless attempts to conform to her family’s expectations, only to face continual setbacks, evoke empathy. I yearned for her family to accept her unconditionally and to see her for who she truly was rather than a burden. I believe children will readily connect with Frederica’s struggles and root for her as she explores new ways to overcome her clumsiness. Upon learning about Frederica’s similarly clumsy grandfather, it became apparent that her trait was hereditary. I hoped Frederica’s journey would be free of peril and that she would encounter helpful animals along the way who could guide her to her grandfather. The prospect of Frederica finding solace and companionship with her grandfather, who understands her unique challenges, underscores the story’s message of mutual support and acceptance, regardless of differences.
The book’s vibrant full-page illustrations by Sandra Serra enhance its appeal, drawing readers into Frederica’s touching adventure. The detailed, colorful artwork enriches the narrative, inviting readers to linger over each page and immerse themselves in Frederica’s world.
The Clumsy Little Bat is a captivating and heartfelt story I thoroughly enjoyed. Frederica’s tale is one that children will likely embrace, finding inspiration and comfort in her journey. I highly recommend this delightful book for young readers.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 1962185117
The Magic of This Book
The Enchanted Forest follows a vivacious seven-year-old and her teddy bear on an adventure in an enchanting realm where she learns about the threats her new animal friends face. What inspired the setup of your story?
The Enchanted Forest is a fable filled with magic and enchantment. Ecology is a topic that has always been very close to my heart: the environment, protecting Nature and the Animal Kingdom. One day, I dreamed about this story and decided to write it for children, hoping that, by reading it, they will become more conscientious adults than us.
This was my first published book, with which I celebrated the 30th anniversary of my literary career in 2023, and which has already created thousands of readers.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
The Enchanted Forest raises awareness for the need to care for and protect Nature, besides highlighting the importance of love and respect for all living beings, be they animals or plants. It is aimed at children, but it can be read at any age and conveys emotion and wonder.
When I wrote it, I tried to make the reader, in this case the child, feel transported to this enchanted forest and feel like they are part of the story. That’s the magic of this book.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The Enchanted Forest has an ecological message and alerts children to the problems that Nature and animals face to survive on this planet that was entrusted to human beings. While having fun, children will learn a lot about the lives of animals. It has several contents that can be explored in a school context.
It is very important to me to captivate readers and encourage reading.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
My latest book for children, The Clumsy Little Bat, came out recently in the USA and is already a huge success in Portugal. Frederica is a very special little bat. She is different from the other bats in her family and is not accepted for that reason. In addition to being very distracted and clumsy, she is also a vegetarian.
One day, Frederica decides to go on an adventure. She has exciting experiences and ends up making a very important discovery: the value of friendship!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Isabel Ricardo’s literary debut, ‘The Enchanted Forest’ returns, resplendent with classic illustrations that capture the nostalgic essence of storybook adventures. The English edition of this Portuguese classic is a treasure trove of learning and enchantment, offering families a gateway to discuss our shared responsibility to the Earth’s precious wildlife.
The Enchanted Forest
In The Enchanted Forest by Isabel Ricardo, readers are introduced to Rita, a vivacious seven-year-old, and her constant companion, Fluffy, the teddy bear. Their adventure begins beside a serene lake, where the tranquility is pierced by the distinct sound of a woodpecker. This moment marks the start of Rita’s journey into an enchanting realm replete with vibrant scenery and the harmonious sounds of nature.
Ricardo skillfully crafts a narrative that celebrates unity among forest inhabitants. The presence of fairies and a variety of animals, such as Spiky the Hedgehog, enriches the tale, adding layers of wonder and discovery. Rita’s interactions with these characters are delightful, illustrating the warmth and curiosity she brings to every encounter. Notably, her fascination with the fairies and exploring the lake’s depths highlights the novel’s imaginative depth. The narrative thoughtfully introduces moments of challenge as Rita learns about the threats her animal friends face from hunters, seamlessly integrating a poignant and uplifting message about environmental and animal conservation. The illustrations significantly enhance the reading experience, bringing the story’s vivid descriptions and colorful characters to life. These visuals complement Ricardo’s evocative writing style, effortlessly guiding readers through each scene.
The Enchanted Forest is a remarkable book that appeals to a wide range of readers. While it is primarily targeted towards younger readers, the book’s universal themes and engaging storytelling make it an equally delightful read for adults as well. The story’s straightforward narrative flow makes it easy to follow, while the endearing characters add depth and charm to the plot. The heartwarming adventure at the center of the book leaves a lasting impression on the reader, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good story.
Pages: 82 | ISBN : 1962185060
The Forgotten Treasure
Isabel Ricardo’s The Forgotten Treasure is an enchanting fantasy novel inspired by captivating myths and folklore. Set within a treasure hunt, the story uncovers a wealth that transcends mere material worth and delves into the realm of profound knowledge. This pursuit spans multiple sects and kingdoms, traversing the vast tapestry of time itself. Presently, a group of enterprising young individuals, Mike, Kelly, Sarah, and Andy, find themselves entrusted with a clue that leads them through the hallowed halls of museums and monuments, beckoning them ever closer to the final treasure. Yet, even they remain blissfully unaware of the intricacies unfolding around them.
The author crafts a narrative that seamlessly integrates explanations for the events taking place by deftly weaving together historical facts, fiction, and mythical elements. The prose flows with elegance and clarity, captivating readers with its fluidity. I was entranced by the author’s skillful employment of evocative phrases on numerous occasions. The book’s relentless pace, replete with daring escapes and perilous predicaments, imbues the entire adventure with an exhilarating, spine-tingling quality. Notably, the interactions between the young protagonists and their unwavering dedication to their quest are truly commendable. Throughout the story, an ever-present allusion to “The Lusiads,” an epic poem by Portuguese poet Luis Vaz de Camoes, lends an additional layer of depth and richness. The manner in which the narrative unfolds, gradually unveiling the arduous and protracted journey in search of the forgotten treasure, greatly appealed to me. The unexpected twists and turns along the way ensured a consistently engrossing read. Nevertheless, it should be acknowledged that, on occasion, certain actions displayed a degree of predictability. Furthermore, while exploring the intricate tapestry of historical facts and references within the narrative, I discovered the need for supplementary research to fully grasp their profound significance.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Forgotten Treasure to avid readers who relish fictional works grounded in the realities of life. This book will undoubtedly captivate adventure seekers and mystery enthusiasts alike, piquing their curiosity with its tantalizing blend of excitement and enigma.
Pages: 316 | ISBN : 1949868923
The Adventurers and the Underground River
Bea and her brother Chris eagerly anticipate a castle tour of Portugal with their cousins, Tony and Daniel. The quartet, accompanied by their witty avian companion, Jack the Crow, set off on a guided exploration of fortresses, keeps, and monasteries. Alongside the primarily elderly tourists, Bea and her family soon discover that a particular pair of middle-aged women seem to harbor ill intentions toward the children. As their journey unfolds, the young Adventurers uncover a perilous scheme while investigating Portugal’s historic castles. Finally, at nightfall, the foursome finds themselves fighting for survival within the enigmatic stone halls of an ancient monastery.
The Adventurers and the Underground River by Isabel Ricardo is the second book in this mysterious and entertaining series. This exciting story can be read as a standalone book or after reading book 1 because the author provides ample backstory to familiarize readers with the main characters. The four cousins—spirited Bea, intellectual Chris, composed Tony, and witty Daniel—are instantly endearing, as is their loyal friend, Jack the Crow. The vivid portrayal of Portugal’s history, from battles and warriors to noble kings and sagacious monks, is thoroughly captivating. The tale of Queen Inez and King Pedro is particularly enchanting, demonstrating the author’s ability to weave engaging historical elements into an action-packed narrative. Echoing the timeless charm of Hardy Boys and Bobbsey Twins mysteries, this adventure is laden with exhilarating action and enlightening historical content. With mild language and the presence of firearms, the story is an ideal choice for readers aged 10 and up who appreciate intelligent, intrepid heroes collaborating to save the day. The thrilling conclusion leaves ample opportunity for future escapades in this world.
The Adventurers and the Underground River is a riveting young adult novel that takes middle-grade readers on an unforgettable adventure. This engaging tale is a valuable addition to any home library, perfect for those who cherish classic, lighthearted mysteries reminiscent of a bygone era.
Pages: 210 | ISBN : 1949868850
LITERARY TITAN 