What Readers Are Saying!

PELE'S DOMAINS/LOS DOMINIOS DE PELE

"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." "

A lovely story, and it's bilingual. So very important. We need more books for children that introduce other worlds."

"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/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."

 

"Loved the way Chloe and Isabella bonded after Chloe shared her family's slavery times and the journey to freedom. Loved the illustration of the girls exchanging a playful look because they knew that they would be meeting again to share more of their past and present lives. I will be reading this lovely story both in English and Spanish to my two granddaughters."

"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."

"I love bilingual books, and this picture book was cute and informative. Chloe tells her life story to Isabella, but Chloe is a doll with the spirit of a little girl who lived through slavery and Isabella is a modern girl. The girls become friends after learning about each other and making a connection."

"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 9-12, 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.