The Power Of A Dream: Maria Feliciana Arballo Latina Pioneer


Title: The Power of a Dream
Author: Linda Covella
Illustrations: Debbie Bolton
Publisher: Maclaren-Cochrane Publishing
ISBN: 9781643720777

Review:

Lots of immigrants have traveled many miles to the United States. They’ve endured harsh weather conditions, diminishing food and water and even death of loved ones. For Maria Feliciana Arballo, a widower with two young children, she was willing to risk the hardships to come to find a better life in California for her and her children.

Maria traveled with Captain Juan Bautista de Anza, Franciscan priests, Spanish cowboys, animals and many colonists who wanted a new life. These many travelers were guided by Pima, Opa and Yuma Indians. They traded food and firewood. Although the journey was long and often unpleasant the travelers, along with Maria, found time to dance and celebrate. When Maria, her daughters and the other colonists finally made it to California, they called their new home Valle del Paraiso or Paradise Valley.

Author Linda Covella’s intention for this book for children was to bring awareness to the history of the United States and all of the immigrants that have traveled here to make this country a great place to come. In the current climate of today’s politics this is a perfect guide to share with young readers a rich history centered around immigrants looking for a better life. Soft colorful illustrations depict Maria’s strength and courage.



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