We are more used to seeing migration from the point of view of the struggle for acceptance in a new place, but this gorgeous book refreshingly celebrates the homeland where Anita lives and where she is the brave and bold Princesa, loved by all. The atmospheric illustrations are suffused with the warmth and colour of the Dominican Republic and you get a real sense of customs, community and family (helped by the Spanish terms sprinkled through the text). It becomes apparent that the family is about to embark on a new, more materially comfortable life in another country and the planes that will take them there are the dragons of Anita’s imagination. They are definitely seen as a threat and the colour palette becomes a more ominous grey as the fearful day approaches and she must leave her beloved island kingdom and her Abuela, her grandmother. Her nerve collapses entirely on the tarmac before boarding, but comforted by her family she promises herself that she will return to her island “with mango-sweet kisses; black stormy nights; glassy, blue waves; spicy, hot heat; and sandy, snug hugs”. This is a valuable insight to share in the first world classroom where the perspective is normally one of immigrants coming to “a better place”. This recognises and acknowledges that the reality is very different. Highly recommended.
Anita watches the dragons high above her as she hops from one cement roof to another in her village in the Dominican Republic. But being the valiant princesa she is, she never lets them scare her. Then one day, Anita must face her fears and begin life in a new country. Will she be brave enough to enter the belly of the beast and take flight to new adventures?
Hannah Carmona is a writer, actor, and director. Hannah's previous titles include Dazzling Travis and Beautiful, Wonderful, Strong Little Me. Hannah is a mother of two, co-founder of Collective Art School of Tennessee, and a YouTuber. She lives in Tennessee.
