Aqui era el paraiso / Here Was Paradise: Seleccion de poemas de Humberto Ak'abal / Selected Poems of Humberto Ak'abal

Aquí era el paraíso / Here Was Paradise is a collection of poems by Humberto Akabal, a Maya poet, that evoke his childhood in the Maya Kiche village of Momostenango, Guatemala. The poems are written for adults and young people and are beautifully illustrated by Amelia Lau Carling. Akabal is famous worldwide as one of the great contemporary poets in the Spanish language and one of the greatest Indigenous poets of the Americas.

Format: Hardback
Length: 172 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2021
Publisher: Groundwood Books Ltd ,Canada

Aquí era el paraíso / Here Was Paradise is a captivating collection of poems penned by the renowned Maya poet Humberto Akabal. These verses transport readers back to his childhood in and around the enchanting Maya Kiche village of Momostenango, Guatemala, while also delving into his profound role as a poet of that very place. Akabal's poetic prowess encompasses a wide range of subjects, from the innocent joys of childhood to the complexities of adulthood, including children, grandfathers, mothers, animals, ghosts, unrequited love, fields, rains, poetry, poverty, and death. While initially crafted for adults, this collection is also beautifully illustrated by award-winning Guatemalan-American illustrator Amelia Lau Carling, making it accessible and cherished by young readers, particularly in this enchanting edition.

Humberto Akabal, a celebrated figure in the world of contemporary Spanish poetry, holds a revered status as one of the greatest Indigenous poets of the Americas. His poetic journey began with the initial composition of his poems in the Kiche language within his mind, before transcribing them into the Spanish language. This unique process reflects his deep connection to his cultural heritage and the fusion of two linguistic worlds.

The collection "Aquí era el paraíso / Here Was Paradise" offers a rich tapestry of themes and emotions, inviting readers to embark on a journey through Akabal's memories and experiences. Through his poetic lens, we witness the vivid portrayal of the Maya Kiche village, its landscapes, traditions, and the daily lives of its inhabitants. The poems are filled with vivid imagery, metaphors, and similes, evoking a sense of wonder and nostalgia.

Akabal's poetry seamlessly weaves together a series of chapters, scenes, and stanzas, creating a cohesive narrative that unfolds like a story. His skillful use of language and structure allows readers to immerse themselves fully in the world of his poems, feeling the weight of emotions and gaining a deeper understanding of the human condition.

In addition to its literary merits, "Aquí era el paraíso / Here Was Paradise" aligns with the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts. The collection encourages readers to develop critical thinking skills by determining themes, summarizing texts, and analyzing the meaning of words and phrases. It also promotes visual and multimedia literacy, as the illustrations enhance the overall aesthetic and emotional impact of the poems.

By exploring the world of Humberto Akabal's poetry, readers are invited to discover a profound connection between language, culture, and the human experience. His words resonate with people of all backgrounds, transcending boundaries and fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexities of life. This collection serves as a testament to the power of poetry to capture the essence of a vanished world and preserve it for generations to come.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 175 x 218 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781773064956