Among the Volcanoes

by Omar S. Castañeda

Book Overview

Isabel Pascay longs to go to school and become a teacher, but her dream just doesn't seem possible in the small Guatemalan village where she lives. The villagers expect Isabel to follow tradition and... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 044040746X
• ISBN13: 9780440407461
• Release Date: December 1992
• Publisher: Yearling Books
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.1" x 7.7"
• Age Range: 9 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 4 to 7

Customer Reviews

Omar, You are with us always

I was a friend of Omar's when he was teaching out at Western Washington University in Bellingham USA back in 1994. His testimony and love for the Guatemalan people and MAYA was always present in his daily life. His family and friends hold him dear to our hearts. I miss you Omar. Maybe in the next life we will be able to meet down in La Libertad, Cuscatlan and get some beers. READ THIS BOOK!

A Wonderful Book

Omar Castaneda's Among The Volcanoes is a wonderful read for grades 5-7. I have used it in my 7th grade language arts class for several years. The heroine Isabel Pacay finds herself torn between her aspirations to become a teacher and "fly" above the "volcanoes" surrounding her (both figuratively and literally) and her family's expectations that she fulfill her role of caretaker for her critically ill mother. Isabel's pain is evident throughout the novel, as is her strength. I found that several students could relate to her need for independence, as well as her struggle to please those she loves. I also found that my girls enjoyed this novel much more than my boys. I feel it would be a great selection for small group or book club reading. It is also ideal for learning more about the amazing traditions, geography, and culture of Guatemala. Enjoy!