A New Neighborhood

That morning Renata walked out of her house and folded her arms. She looked around her debris-strewn neighborhood and wondered how long it had been there. Smoke was billowing from the cars and animals could be seen among the debris. Renata sighed, wishing things were different.

This is not a manual for learning how to recycle, compost or even how to choose the best plant of the season. This story, inspired by a true event, is about a proactive woman who realized she could beautify her neighborhood and make it “the most beautiful place on earth.” It is also a reminder that, if we act collaboratively as a community, we can transform our environment and ourselves.

Key points

2024 – Selected for “Reading for a Healthy Planet” at Bologna Children’s Book Fair
2024 – IBBY Honour List, Writing Category
2022 – IBBY Chile Award, Singular Category

• A touching true story about how we can change the world by organizing our community.
• Teaches what things we can do to improve our environment.
• Ideal for learning about garbage, recycling and composting.

Josefina Hepp

2013 – IBBY Chile Award, Children’s Non Fiction

María José Arce

2023 – Banco del Libro de Venezuela, Best Books for Children and Young People Award
2018, 2016 – Cuatrogatos Foundation, 100 Recommended Books
2013 – Latin American illustration Contest