Magic: Once Upon a Faraway Land

Mirelle Ortega's debut picture book shares her story of growing up on her family's pineapple farm in Mexico, teaching us that magic isn't good or bad, it just is. It can transform dirt into pineapples, seeds into trees, wool into blankets, words into stories, and blank pages into pictures.

Format: Hardback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2022
Publisher: Cameron & Company Inc

In her captivating debut as both author and illustrator, Mirelle Ortega unveils the enchanting tale of her upbringing on her family's pineapple farm in Mexico. Through this heartfelt narrative, she reveals the profound truth about the enigmatic concept of magic: it exists, devoid of moral judgment, and its essence lies in its ever-changing nature. Magic has the power to bestow blessings upon us, just as it can take them away. It brings forth the beauty of life, nurturing growth and prosperity, and it also allows for the withering away of circumstances.

Growing up amidst the lush landscapes of the Mexican pineapple farm, a young girl embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She learns that magic is not confined to a singular definition but encompasses a myriad of transformations. It manifests in the miraculous transformation of dirt into luscious pineapples, the humble seed into a towering tree, the delicate wool into warm blankets, and the mere words into captivating stories. Moreover, magic has the remarkable ability to breathe life into blank pages, transforming them into vibrant illustrations that bring stories to life.

Through her captivating illustrations, Mirelle Ortega invites readers to explore the profound interplay between change and transformation. She highlights the uncontrollable forces of nature, such as devastating natural disasters and the loss of loved ones, and juxtaposes them with the transformative power of magic. Magic offers solace and resilience in the face of adversity, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for growth and renewal.

This enchanting picture book serves as a testament to the boundless imagination and the transformative power of storytelling. Mirelle Ortega's debut showcases her talent as both an author and illustrator, inviting readers to embark on a journey of discovery and embrace the magic that exists within the world around us.

Dimension: 229 x 279 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781951836573