About This Book
Reach for this book when your child begins asking complex questions about global justice, the cost of war, or what it truly means to be brave in the face of fear. Caminar follows Carlos, a young boy in 1981 Guatemala, who must flee his village and navigate the highlands alone after a military raid. Written in sparse but deeply evocative verse, the story explores heavy themes of loss, survival, and the transition from childhood innocence to the weight of adult responsibility. While the historical context is sobering, the narrative focuses on Carlos's resilience and his connection to his heritage. It is an ideal choice for middle schoolers ready for a sophisticated, emotionally honest look at a difficult chapter of history, offering a mirror for those who feel small in a big world and a window into the strength of the human spirit.
