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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
LITERARY TITAN 