A Flicker of Hope: A Story of Migration

As the monarcas prepare for their long, arduous migration north, Papa plays his guitarra and hums Lucia’s beloved song. She knows, that with the coming of spring, their time together is waning. He’ll return in the fall when the beautiful monarcas make their voyage across the countryside, rivers, and mountains. For now, they must both head northbound. He must labor in the fields to provide for his family. While Papa dreams of a more promising tomorrow, Lucia waits patiently for his homecoming. Abuela and Mama teach her to braid baskets and weave ocoxal leaves, and as autumn shines its vibrant hues, Papa and the monarcas return to where their journey began.

A Flicker of Hope is about the love of family, culture, and nature. It’s heartwarming, and though it’s mostly fiction, it has elements of nonfiction threaded throughout it. There’s a glossary that provides Spanish-English translations for those who are unfamiliar with the language. Additionally, facts about monarch butterflies are detailed in the author’s note. There are life-like illustrations that brighten the pages with lustrous colors and a welcoming aura. This sweet story is relatively short and is ideal for children ages five to nine. It’ll be a great pick for elementary school classrooms and libraries.