Journey to the Heart of the Amazon: Yana Marull’s Mission to Educate Through Chocolate
In her latest book, “The Chocolate Tree,” Spanish journalist turned children’s author Yana Marull invites readers on an enchanting adventure into the Amazon to explore the origins of cocoa, intertwining a message of ecological awareness with the magic of storytelling.
Unveiling “The Chocolate Tree”
In the lush, vibrant heart of the Amazon, where the air hums with the life of a million species, lies a story waiting to be told—a tale not just of adventure and discovery but of connection, conservation, and the magic hidden in the depths of the forest. This is the essence of Yana Marull’s latest literary offering, “The Chocolate Tree,” a narrative that weaves together the threads of ecological consciousness with the rich tapestry of Latin American culture and biodiversity.
Born in Girona, Catalonia, in 1969, Marull has spent over two decades immersed in the Latin American lands of Ecuador, Venezuela, and Brazil, absorbing the vibrant cultures, diverse ecosystems, and, importantly, the pressing environmental issues facing these regions. Though she has resided in Germany since 2019, her heart and work remain tightly bound to Latin America, particularly Brazil, where she actively collaborates with both governmental and civil organizations dedicated to the preservation of the Amazon Rainforest.
Before venturing into the realm of children’s literature, Marull carved out a career in journalism, with a keen focus on environmental reporting. This professional path not only honed her awareness of the critical importance of the world’s great forests, their inhabitants, and their cultures but also ignited a passion for contributing to the preservation of these precious ecosystems. It is this passion that Marull seeks to impart to her young readers, starting with her debut book, “The Flying Rivers,” which educates on the water cycle and its pivotal role in the climate crisis.
Exploring “The Chocolate Tree”
“The Chocolate Tree” marks Marull’s twelfth book, an imaginative journey that introduces young readers to the cultural and environmental significance of the tropical tree behind one of the world’s favorite delicacies—chocolate. Through the eyes of three friends who embark on a quest to find this magical tree, Marull offers a sweet, adventure-laden voyage that mirrors her expeditions into the Amazon in search of native cocoa.
Marull’s approach to children’s literature is unique; her stories are crafted in a youthful language yet stem from meticulous journalistic research and consultations with environmental experts. This ensures that her narratives are not only engaging and educational but also grounded in real-world issues and solutions. Moreover, Marull brings her tales to life with her illustrations, capturing the essence of the Amazon with vibrant colors and childlike wonder. Her depictions of the region’s fauna, many of which she has seen firsthand on her numerous expeditions, are a testament to her deep connection with and respect for the natural world.
“The Chocolate Tree” is more than just a story about the quest for cocoa; it is a gentle nudge for readers to recognize the interconnectedness of our world, the importance of conservation, and the role each person can play in protecting our planet. Marull’s work is a bridge between cultures, highlighting the shared responsibility of global citizens to care for the environment, irrespective of geographical boundaries.
Addressing Environmental Challenges
This narrative also serves as a timely reminder of the broader environmental challenges facing Latin America. Deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss are pressing issues across the continent, from the Amazon to the Andean forests, affecting not just the flora and fauna but also the indigenous communities who have been stewards of these lands for centuries. Through her storytelling, Marull shines a light on these challenges, fostering a sense of responsibility and urgency among her young readers to advocate for and work towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
Marull’s dedication to environmental education through literature places her among a growing cadre of authors and activists using their platforms to raise awareness about ecological issues in Latin America, where environmental degradation poses a significant threat to the region’s biodiversity. The livelihoods of its people and stories like “The Chocolate Tree” are vital tools for inspiring the next generation to cherish and protect their natural heritage.
As Marull continues to write, illustrate, and advocate for the preservation of the environment, her work serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action. “The Chocolate Tree” is not just a journey to the heart of the Amazon; it is an invitation to embark on a lifelong adventure of learning, caring, and acting for the planet—a message that resonates well beyond the pages of her books and into the hearts of readers around the world.
