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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
I Had A Lot Of Fun Writing
The Last Conspirator follows Captain Gualdim who challenges Spanish power through the streets of Lisbon in the midst revolution. What were some sources that informed this novels development?
I did a lot of historical research and consulted countless books that describe that time period and its events. Apart from Laura, her family and the three knights, all the characters in this book existed in History.
This seemed like a fun book to write. What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
There were many scenes in this historical novel that I had a lot of fun writing. Perhaps what amused me the most was chapter 31, in which the main male characters – Pedro, Afonso and Diogo – disguise themselves as friars to go to Saint Jorge’s Castle to free Laura’s uncle who was imprisoned there. I laughed a lot when creating the descriptions and the fun dialogues.
Which character in the book do you feel you relate to the most?
I identify a lot with Laura de Noronha. I loved creating her!
Do you have plans to write more books featuring the characters in this book?
Yes. I am currently writing another historical novel, that succeeds the events of the Revolution of 1640, which involves these characters, as well as a new main character who also existed in History and whose ultimate fate was quite tragic.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
The Last Conspirator
This is a riveting historical fiction novel set in 1640’s Portugal under the rule of King Filipe. The discontent of those who live under him continues to grow. The people begin to revolt against the many changes that benefit only one person, the king. A masked man, also known as Captain Gualdim, fights the king’s soldiers in order to give back to the townspeople. Three knights Don Diogo, Don Afonso, and Don Pedro, all considered fine men by anyone’s standard, set out to unmask captain Gualdim and find out who he is once and for all. The three knights fight for the hand of Laura de Noronha, the beautiful daughter of Don Antonio de Noronha, who has become involved with the masked man. Will Laura’s secret life be uncovered? Will the knights discover who the masked man is?
Author Isabel Ricardo provides readers with an action-packed historical fiction novel that’s colored with Portugal’s rich history. Each character is introduced with a description of what they look like and their mannerisms. While I think this makes it easy for readers to visualize the characters, I would’ve liked to have the characters introduced through the story, rather than the author telling us. I like that Laura’s character is still feminine, but she also has a spunky side to her. This makes her character fun to follow because you don’t know what she’s going to say next.
The author’s writing style is playful yet serious at the right times. I enjoyed the playful banter between the three knights. The flirting between Laura and Don Pedro is sweet and it shows his charming side. The tension begins to rise as everyone in the story begins to suspect that one another is the masked man. This made the story hard to put down because I too wanted to know who he was. The plot twist threw me for a loop and was something that I did not expect. It was a shocking but pleasant surprise and I wouldn’t change the ending.
The Last Conspirator is a lively historical fiction novel for fans of Alexandre Dumas’s The Three Musketeers or for readers looking for an adventure story that channels Johnston McCulley’s The Curse of Capistrano.
Pages: 476 | ASIN: 1949868699
Inspired By My Daughter
Sofia Gama and the Templar’s Prophecy follows a schoolgirl that inherits ancient magic and is part of a plan to save the world from evil. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
The inspiration for this series and, in this case, the first volume “Sofia Gama and the Templar’s Prophecy” came to me during a bus ride from Lisbon to Nazaré, when I was listening to the song “I save the World today” by Eurythmics on the radio, which inspired me for this whole series. During the whole ride I wrote everything on everything I could get my hands on (I always carry a pen and some paper with me), including my checkbook, ruining the remaining 20 checks in the process…
The creation of “Sofia Gama and the Templar’s Prophecy” was very unusual. Curiously, it was all written during night time. I would wake several times to write, in the dark even, fall back asleep and so on and so forth till morning. During the day I’d transcribe my notes into the computer, because if it takes me more than three days to do so I won’t be able to figure out what I have written… I wrote very fast in order to keep up with my imagination and some times even I have a hard time deciphering my own handwriting, which can be a little bit frustrating!… The physical appearance of the character was inspired by my daughter Inês.
Sofia is a young girl that has to discover herself and her destiny. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
The crucial plot is the presence of the Portuguese language in the World, spoken by roughly 260 million people spread out over the five continents. In my young adult books, I always strive to impart information that I deem valuable and enriching, knowledge that stimulate the thought process and which transmit human values that allow for a better development, as better citizens. I care about finding interesting facts related to the place or subject about which I am writing at the time, in order to provide the reader with this pleasure of learning something new. Learning something new while you read is very important to me. If we can associate the pleasure of reading with learning about different subjects, all the better.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The Portuguese Discoveries, the Language, History, friendship, loyalty, courage, camaraderie, imagination. My main goal is to captivate youngsters into reading more and provide fun, adventure, mystery, excitement and suspense to my readers.
Sofia Gama and the Templar’s Prophecy was very special to me since it allowed me to enter a submarine belonging to the Portuguese Navy, since it was impossible to enter the German submarine from World War II that lays sunken in the depths off the shore of Nazaré. Not to mention the amazing experience of being in direct contact with the dolphins in the Lisbon Zoo, since I always visit the places where my books will take place. In addition to that, this book was an amazing hit in Portugal and Brasil, not only among the young, but among grownups as well, for it captivated them too – I received feedback from some amazing cases. From the many readers that read this book multiple times, two readers stand out: an eleven year old Portuguese boy who read it 13 times, and a Brazilian woman who read it 8 times.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am currently writing my next historical novel, in Portuguese. Later this year, Underline Publishing will release “The Forgotten Treasure”, the second volume of The Port of the Grail trilogy, in succession of “The Quest for the Lost Map”. There will also be a new adventure: “The Adventurers in Underground River”.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Meanwhile, the Enemy’s mission is to destroy the messenger of the prophecy and keeper of the medallions and prevent, at all costs, the birth of the future Warriors. Almost a thousand years have passed, and one of the warriors has just been born… Pursued by the Enemy, Sofia Gama takes refuge in a quaint little town where a big secret resides: Nazaré.
SOFIA GAMA AND THE TEMPLAR’S PROPHECY is an exhilarating and engaging story, filled with emotion, adventure, and suspense that will make readers stay glued to the page. The Warriors of Light is a captivating and fantastic young adult series that has delighted readers of all ages.
