Last week, Portland-based author Ann Cameron visited Socorro de Belén, a school in Antigua, Guatemala, where Child Aid has been working for many years. Socorro is a school for young indigenous women training to become teachers. Norma Guzmán, a Child Aid literacy trainer, coordinated the visit because she has used Ann Cameron’s books with her students. Needless to say, the students at Socorro were thrilled to have this opportunity.

For many of the students, one of Ann’s books, Colibrí, was the first novel they had ever read. Many of the young women were amazed by accuracy of the book and enthusiastic to read a book about their own country. According to Norma, their interest in this novel and participation in Child Aid’s programs has inspired many to become avid readers. One young woman expressed that she is now reading her 11th book of the year.

In Guatemala, where quality children’s and young adult’s books are nearly impossible to find, the impact Ann’s books, combined with our programs, is immeasurable. Thanks to our outstanding trainer, Norma, for arranging this visit and to Ann for all she is doing to help the youth of Guatemala become readers for life.

Ann has written several award-winning Spanish language books for children and young adults. The book that Norma uses, Colibrí (Hummingbird), is a contemporary adventure story of a young Mayan girl and is set in Guatemala, where Ann lived for over 20 years.

To purchase Ann’s books, available in Spanish and English, click here.