Lotería
What’s inside...
The turn of a card could change your destiny in this captivating middle grade adventure based on the Lotería card game and perfect for fans of Coco. While searching for her missing cousin, a young girl named Clara is transported to a mythical kingdom, becoming entangled in a perilous game of chance. In the mystical Kingdom of Las Pozas, cards dealt by Life and Death hold high stakes, predicting either a long life or an early end. As Clara navigates this treacherous game in an effort to save her cousin Esteban, she discovers her own ability to change the rules and choose her own fate. Karla Arenas Valenti's narrative, complemented by Dana Sanmar's beautiful illustrations, explores themes of free will and destiny in a richly woven world of Mexican lore.
Discussion points
What did you think about the role of fate in Clara and Esteban's journey? Do you believe luck played a part?
How did the character's choices influence the outcome of the story? Can you think of a time when your choices affected your day?
What does ‘Lotería’ mean in the context of this story? How does it connect to the life lessons Clara and Esteban learn?
How do the illustrations help tell the story? Do they change how you imagine the scenes?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who and what would you ask?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child which character they liked best and why, to personalize the conversation.
Encourage your child to compare events in the book with their own experiences, fostering a deeper connection with the themes.
Use the illustrations as a talking point, asking your child to describe what they see and how it makes them feel about the story.
Reinforce the cultural aspects of the story by exploring more about the Lotería game and how it's played.
Discuss the concept of fate and choices, prompting your child to think about how both elements can shape life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of resilience
Explanation: In 'Lotería', the protagonist faces various challenges and learns to overcome them with determination and persistence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle their own obstacles whether in school or in personal relationships, understanding that perseverance can lead to positive outcomes.
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of fate and choice
Explanation: The narrative intertwines elements of magic and fate, urging readers to think about how choices shape our lives despite the role of destiny.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp the importance of decision making and taking responsibility for their actions in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: As characters in the book face various life situations, the story portrays how understanding and compassion are crucial.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic and considerate towards their peers and family members, fostering a supportive and caring environment.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for cultural heritage
Explanation: The game of Lotería, which is central to the book, serves as a cultural artifact that ties the characters to their Mexican heritage.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and appreciate their own cultural backgrounds and those of others, promoting cultural diversity and respect.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonds
Explanation: Throughout the book, the significance of family and connections is emphasized, showing how these relationships provide support and love.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded of the value of maintaining close familial relationships and can apply the importance of family unity in their own lives.