The Walls of Cartagena

Reach for this book when your child feels overlooked by their peers or is struggling to find where they fit in. It is a soul-stirring choice for the middle-grade reader who is developing a sense of social justice and empathy for those living on the margins of society. Set in the vibrant but divided world of 17th-century Colombia, the story follows Calepino, a boy living on the streets of Cartagena who feels invisible to the wealthy citizens around him. Through an unexpected bond with a wise, elderly healer, Calepino begins to see his own worth and the power of human connection. While the backdrop includes historical realities of poverty and class distinction, the heart of the story is about the dignity of every person and the resilience of the human spirit. It is an excellent bridge for discussing how kindness and a sense of purpose can transform a person's life, even in difficult circumstances.