The Secret Footprints
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The Dominican legend of the ciguapas, creatures who lived in underwater caves and whose feet were on backward so that humans couldn't follow their footprints, is reinvented by renowned author Julia Alvarez. Although the ciguapas fear humans, Guapa, a bold and brave ciguapa, can't help but be curious--especially about a boy she sees on the nights when she goes on the land to hunt for food. When she gets too close to his family and is discovered, she learns that some humans are kind. Even though she escapes unharmed and promises never to get too close to a human again, Guapa still sneaks over to the boy's house some evenings, where she finds a warm pastelito in the pocket of his jacket on the clothesline.
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Apparently this story originates in the Dominican Republic, and I cannot say enough how beautifully written it really is. No matter how well the book is written however, it is the pictures that go along with this story that really make it shine! The ciguapas are said to have their feet on backward, and Negrin really made this stand out with his rich illustrations. The kids were enamored with these mythical creatures from page one.
Guapa is the main character in this story, and she is a young girl in her tribe. What I really loved about Guapa as a main character was that she was so easy for the kids to identify with. It is evident that her decisions in the story are based on her age and lack of experience. She is a young girl, and a curious one at that! Since the kids were so easily able to identify with her, they were able to appreciate the story that much more.
Underneath this story is a message of acceptance and of ignoring stereotypes. Of taking a chance with a new friend, or a new adventure. This book is a very sweet way for kids to be introduced to this old folktale, and perhaps learn a little bit about themselves in the process.
