My Sweet Orange Tree
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- 8,99 €
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- 8,99 €
Description de l’éditeur
Five-year-old Zezé lives in Rio de Janeiro, in a forgotten slump in great poverty. But Zezé is not alone. In this world of scolding and beating, he has discovered a magical universe where he spends most of his time: the realm of imagination. There rules a sweet orange tree called Minguinho, and he is a tree like no other: he can talk.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
In this English translation of a Brazilian classic originally published in 1968, Zez , a clever and mischievous five-year old boy, charms readers as he experiences the wonders and trials of childhood in Rio de Janeiro. Narrated by Zez 's older self, 40 years later, the novel carries a distinct undercurrent of nostalgia and gravitas. Among the many memorable characters are street performer Ariovaldo, who treats the determined Zez as an equal; Dona Cec lia Paim, who sees the good in a boy often dismissed as trouble; and Manuel Valadares, the first to exhibit tenderness to Zez . Inspired by the author's own childhood, the story is at once specific and universal: Zez 's individual struggles and personality are uniquely his own, but his dreams of feeling seen, accepted, and safe are human commonalities. Capturing the realistically fluid, unformed nature of childhood, the author presents a boy who might lovingly confide in an orange tree named Pinkie, then, moments later, execute mean-spirited pranks and hurl cutting insults. This moving Brazilian classic is rich with opportunities for contemplation and discussion. Ages 14 up.