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¡Bienvenidos!
I’m Anna, a children’s author, NFEC-Certified Financial Educator (CFEI), and café-con-leche fanatic.
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The Tree of Hope
INSPIRED BY TRUE EVENTS, IS MY DEBUT PICTURE BOOK.
The jagüey blanco, also known as a banyan tree, of the San Juan Gate is one of the most beloved trees in the city of Old San Juan, located on the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. Due to its sheer size, magnificence, and location. For over a century, it stood proudly next to the tall red gateway known as the San Juan Gate, or the Puerta de San Juan.
On September 20, 2017, Hurricane Maria made its devastating landfall in Puerto Rico. It was the worst natural disaster on record to hit the island, causing widespread flooding and a complete collapse of the island’s electrical grid and water systems. People were sadly left without running water and in complete darkness for months.
It also destroyed much of the island’s nature, including the magnificent jagüey blanco, which was uprooted and fell into the sea.
The Tree Of Hope is inspired by the tree’s miraculous rescue and regrowth; a reminder of the power of community and the importance of never giving up.
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“The Tree of Hope is a delightful and moving tale, told with great charm and vigour. It’s message is – as the title suggests – one of hope, courage, resourcefulness, and endurance. The illustrations and text work beautifully together to tell and important and inspiring story.”
- Anthony McGowan
English Author & 2020 CILIP Carnegie Medal for Lark
"...this meaningful story evades didacticism and links the tree’s resilience with the fortitude of Puerto Ricans determined to rebuild their lives. People are pictured with different skin tones, reflecting the diversity of Puerto Rico."
Kirkus Reviews
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"A powerful debut picture book about community, the determination of the Puerto Rican people, and a majestic and resilient tree. Purchase for all picture book collections."
- School Library Journal
RECOGNIZED BY BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AS
One of the "Best Children's Book of the Year - 2023 Edition"
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School Visits
I love sharing my journey to becoming an author and the story behind The Tree of Hope with students. I offer both virtual and in-person visits across the globe. Whether it’s inspiring young readers or talking about the power of storytelling, I’m excited to connect with schools and students!
I also wear my financial literacy hat during school visits, teaching students how to be financially savvy. For more details on these sessions, please click HERE.
If you're interested in learning more about my Author Visits, please reach out via the Contact form or email us at hello@annaorensteincardona.com.
Resources For the Classroom
IN SPANISH
IN ENGISH
This guide offers activities to help teachers integrate The Tree of Hope into the classroom.
"The Tree of Hope is a beautiful story of resilience, not only of a beloved, ancient tree, but of a proud community as well. This is the kind of book the world needs right now."
- matt de la peña
Newberry Medal Winner and New York Times bestselling author
"Uplifting. In this story el Jagüey Blanco stands in for the indomitable spirit and resilience of the Puerto Rican people.”
- Lulu Delacre
Pura Belpré Honoree and New York Times bestselling illustrator
“This story reminds us that by working together, we can all make a change in our communities and help our planet.”
- Chitra Soundar
Indian-born British award-winning author
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Copyright Anna Orenstein-Cardona 2022 | Designed By Coffee and Flow Creative
As well as a children’s author, I am also a NFEC-Certified Financial Educator (CFEI). By clicking the link below, you will be directed to my blog specifically dedicated to my journey as an author.
My Children's Writing Journey
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