"Pele's Domains/Los dominios de Pele is a wonderful bilingual adventure that takes readers on a thrilling journey into Hawaiian mythology. Isabella, Chloe, and their winged companion Pegasus explore the mystical Kilauea Volcano and meet the fiery goddess Pele, whose power is both awe-inspiring and intimidating. The authors’ imaginative storytelling, paired with Salva Ferrando’s mesmerizing artwork, creates a vivid world that feels alive. I loved how the book blended mythology with nature, making it both educational and exciting. This story transported me, and I didn’t want it to end!"
"Hot lava and flying horses? Sign me up! Pele's Domains/Los dominios de Pele is the ultimate mash-up of adventure, mythology, and a dash of fiery drama. Isabella and Chloe are total rock stars, braving Pele’s volcanic lair with a little help from her sister and their trusty Pegasus. The Hawaiian vibes are on point, and the illustrations? Mind-blowing! This book is perfect for kids (and adults like me!) who love epic adventures and learning something cool while they’re at it. You don’t want to miss this volcanic explosion of awesomeness!"
"Explore the Mystical Realms in Pele's Domains/Los dominios de Pele! Dive into the fascinating world of Pele in this powerful story. It takes you on a journey through the cultural and spiritual landscapes associated with the legendary Hawaiian goddess Pele. It blends mythology and nature, offering an intriguing look at her domains and impact on the world."
"Pele's Domains/Los dominios de Pele by María Retana and Miles Last (her grandson) is a captivating exploration of Hawaiian mythology and the goddess Pele. The vivid illustrations complement the engaging narrative, drawing readers into the fantasy adventure of Chloe and Isabella as they meet Pele and accept her challenge. It's a wonderful tale that celebrates culture, tradition, and the power of storytelling. A must-read!"
"I received this book as a gift. I'm bilingual, so I feel like you get 2 books for 1 as I will alternate reading the story in both languages to my granddaughters. Love the gracefulness of these girls as they prepare for a mystical adventure. Most of all, the importance of respect and attention they showed to Pele and their eagerness to explore the volcano safely. In the end, I loved the mischievous look between Isabella and Chloe, knowing that more adventures are coming to the readers."
"I would like to highlight the dedication and commitment of the writers in translating the book, as well as the fact that the illustrations are real, drawn by a human illustrator. Our heroines, Isabella and Chloe travel with their winged horse in search of adventure.We have mythology from Hawaii, which merges with nature and a magical world."
"Pele's Domains was such a fun fantasy read! The story was really creative and exciting, and we loved how it incorporated both languages (English/Spanish). It was captivating and easy to follow along with. The illustrations were also really beautiful and added to the magical feel of the story while bringing the characters to life. I would definitely recommend this book to any kid who loves fantasy. My child and I thoroughly enjoyed this adventure with Isabella and Chloe. Overall, it's a fantastic read!"
"Wonderfully written! Love this mystical adventure. Illustrations are beautifully done!"
"Pele's Domains is a fabulous book. I especially like the characters Isabella & Chloe you created. They're an inspirational adventurous duo. Great job on capturing imagination along with mythology."
"Pele's Domains/Los dominios de Pele by Maria Retana and Miles Last is a captivating read for young adventurers aged 9-12 who are eager to explore the mystical realms of Hawaiian mythology, learn about the powerful goddess Pele, and discover the wonders of nature and culture."
CHLOE'S SECRETS/LOS SECRETOS DE CHLOE
"Chloe's Secrets is a gorgeous bilingual book for kids—it tells a really moving story that makes history come alive. Chloe, a doll, narrates a story exposing the tragic truths of slavery in America—the violent abduction of Africans and the brutal plantation life in Louisiana. Young readers will experience the daily struggles of enslaved people through Chloe's powerful recollections—the grueling labor, the absence of literacy, the scarcity of clothing, and the terrifying threat of punishments, especially the dreaded whip known as The Cat of Nine Tails. Plus, it tells about their amazing escapes, like when some ran off to Mexico for freedom. This book tells a great story of history, it's illustrated really well and is perfect for children 7-12. Storytellers teaching history? This book is essential for parents and educators."
"I loved this book. The illustrations were well done, with vibrant colors children will love. The main characters, Chloe and Isabella, complemented each other well in that their life experiences were vastly different. I thought that introducing Chloe as a ghost who embodies a corn husk doll from New Orleans was brilliant. The author presented the story of Chloe's life as a slave, and how she, her parents, brother, and sister escaped to Mexico to gain freedom, was well done and easy for younger audiences to understand."
"Chloe's Secrets/Los secretos de Chloe is a beautifully written bilingual picture book that offers a unique and thoughtful perspective on slavery in the South during the 1800s, told through the eyes of ten-year-old Chloe. The way Chloe shares her life with Isabella, a modern child, creates a heartfelt connection between history and today’s young readers. The illustrations are powerful and sensitive, bringing the story to life in a way that feels accessible and age-appropriate. I especially loved how this book balances sadness and hope, making it a meaningful read that sticks with you."
"OMG, this book is like a secret treasure chest of history and heart! Chloe's Secrets/Los secretos de Chloe had me hooked with its mix of real-life stories and gorgeous illustrations that made my emotions do somersaults. Chloe and Isabella? Total BFFs across time, showing kids how life used to be and why family and sacrifice are everything. Plus, it’s bilingual, so you get double the story goodness! This book is a must-read for kids and grown-ups who want to feel ALL the feels and learn something new."
"Ms. Retana brings two cultures together through a young girl’s dream and her collection of dolls. One of the dolls, who comes to life in the girl’s dream, tells of her experience as a child of slaves on a plantation. In this way, Ms. Retana introduces the young reader to the subject of slavery. Mr. Ferrando's illustrations enhance the story, colorfully depicting the characters and setting. I would recommend this book to all young readers, at home and in the classroom."
"Great illustrations! This book does an excellent job of explaining the terrible times that occurred during slavery, in a "kid-friendly" way. The author does a great job of showing how two different worlds can connect through friendship and story telling."
"Chloe's Secrets/Los secretos de Chloe is a heartwarming and historically significant read that will resonate deeply with young readers aged 7-12, who are curious about the past, value family unity, and appreciate stories of resilience and hope."
"This book is a good way for kids to learn more about the slavery era through one little girl's story, shared with a newfound friend from the future. In sharing "secrets" from the past, we learn how we relate, how we are different and how all of us have a story to tell. Nice.
