News Summary
A new picture book titled ‘The Invisible Parade’ by Leigh Bardugo and John Picacio is set to release on September 2. This enchanting tale honors the Día de los Muertos tradition, following young Cala’s journey through grief and healing as she navigates the loss of her grandfather. With its beautiful illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, this book aims to resonate universally with readers while celebrating Mexican culture. Preorders for this beautiful book are already available, capturing an enchanting blend of narrative and art.
The Magic of Día de los Muertos Comes Alive in a New Picture Book
Get ready, book lovers! In the heart of San Antonio, there’s a buzz in the air with the upcoming release of a delightful new picture book titled The Invisible Parade. This enchanting creation pairs the incredible storytelling of Leigh Bardugo, a New York Times bestselling author known for her gripping fantasy series, with the stunning artistry of John Picacio, an award-winning illustrator and a proud local resident.
Embracing the Spirit of Día de los Muertos
The heartwarming The Invisible Parade draws inspiration from the rich tradition of Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. This special celebration allows families and friends to honor their loved ones who have passed away, and this book captures that essence beautifully. Set to hit the shelves on September 2, it’s already available for preorder, and trust us, you won’t want to miss out.
A Journey Through Grief and Healing
The story revolves around a young girl named Cala, who finds herself grappling with the overwhelming sadness of losing her grandfather. As her family gets ready to celebrate his life, Cala is left feeling lost in her grief. But when she wanders off during their visit to the cemetery, she unexpectedly crosses paths with four mysterious horsemen. What follows is a magical journey that helps her transition from heartache and confusion to strength and love.
A Personal Tale with Universal Appeal
Picacio sees this book as more than just a story; it’s a deeply personal tale that speaks across cultures. He hopes that its themes of love, loss, and healing will resonate with readers from all walks of life. While the roots of the story are firmly planted in Mexican traditions, its messages are universal, providing comfort and solace to anyone who has experienced loss.
From Concept to Creation
The seeds for The Invisible Parade were planted back in 2016 when Bardugo first pitched the idea, describing it as “the Wizard of Oz set in a graveyard.” What a wonderfully whimsical concept! To create the book, both authors undertook an immersive research journey, visiting cemeteries, exploring museums, and sharing personal stories that helped shape Cala’s character and her touching narrative.
A Blend of Visual and Narrative Art
John Picacio’s illustrations in this book are nothing short of lavish. He views the artwork in picture books not merely as decoration but as an essential part of storytelling. Every image dances with life, adding an extra layer of depth to Bardugo’s evocative writing. Together, they’ve crafted a collaborative expression that combines their unique perspectives and experiences into a heartfelt story that readers will cherish.
Anticipation Builds with a Talented Team
More than just a new release, The Invisible Parade marks a significant collaboration between two creative powerhouses. Bardugo, known for her bestselling Grishaverse novels like the Shadow and Bone trilogy—which is now a booming live-action series on Netflix—has sold over 20 million copies worldwide. Picacio’s artistic flair captivates audiences, ensuring that this picture book is bound to be a fan favorite.
The Perfect Book for a Special Celebration
So, as we gear up for the rich and colorful celebrations of Día de los Muertos, make sure to mark your calendars for the release of The Invisible Parade. This picture book not only tells a beautiful story; it also serves as a gentle reminder of the healing power of love and the importance of remembering those we hold dear. Grab your copy and join Cala on this extraordinary journey through grief to hope. Happy reading!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
John Picacio’s *The Invisible Parade* Enriches Children’s Literature
Additional Resources
- San Antonio Express-News
- Wikipedia: Día de los Muertos
- Parade
- Google Search: Día de los Muertos San Antonio
- San Antonio CultureMap
- Google Scholar: Día de los Muertos
- Lone Star Live
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Día de los Muertos
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google News: Día de los Muertos
