The Maldonado Miracle
Avon Camelot Book S. Series
on Goodreads (37)
What’s inside...
The Maldonado Miracle is a novel by Theodore Taylor that tells the story of a young boy named Jose Maldonado. Jose is a Mexican-American who crosses the border into the United States in search of his father, who has gone there to find work. After a difficult journey, Jose arrives in a small town where he is taken in by a kind priest. The town is struggling economically, and the arrival of Jose coincides with a series of miraculous events that begin to occur, including the statue of the town's patron saint weeping blood. These miracles lead to an influx of visitors and revitalization of the town's economy. As the town is transformed by these events, Jose grapples with his own personal struggles and the mystery of his father's whereabouts. The novel explores themes of faith, hope, and the search for belonging, as well as the challenges faced by immigrants. Ultimately, the story is a heartwarming tale of a community's renewal and a young boy's journey towards self-discovery and reconciliation with his past.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Jose Maldonado
Father Russell
Discussion points
How do you think Jose felt when he first arrived in Maldonado? Can you relate to feeling new somewhere?
What did you think about the changes in the town after the supposed miracle? Do you believe miracles can happen?
What can we learn from Father Gutierrez's doubts and struggles throughout the story?
How do the different characters in the book show courage or fear? Which actions would you take if you were in their place?
What does this story teach us about the importance of community and coming together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s major events to set a comfortable tone for open dialogue. Ask your child to compare their feelings or actions to those of the characters to make personal connections. Encourage them to think critically about the idea of miracles and community impact, facilitating a discussion on their beliefs and values. Highlight passages that show character development or major themes to help guide the conversation. End with asking your child how they might act in a similar situation, fostering empathy and decision-making skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of hope and belief
Explanation: In 'The Maldonado Miracle', the protagonist maintains hope even when faced with challenging circumstances, showing resilience and optimism.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain hopeful and keep a positive outlook even during difficult times, helping them to cope and find solutions.
Example Lesson: The value of community support
Explanation: The story highlights how a community comes together to support each other, embodying the spirit of cooperation and mutual aid.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and contribute to their community, understanding that collective support can overcome individual challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity and multiculturalism
Explanation: The book presents a diverse cast of characters, showcasing various cultural backgrounds and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to respect and embrace cultural differences, fostering a more inclusive attitude in their daily interactions.