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The Miracle Forest

Back Cover The Miracle Forest.jpg

Description

In the desolate plains of eastern Colombia, Paolo Lugari envisioned an oasis where people and nature could thrive in harmony. Against all odds, he and a dedicated team transformed the barren land into a vibrant community. Through relentless innovation, they overcame challenges, created sustainable solutions, and witnessed the forest’s miraculous revival. The Miracle Forest, a bilingual English and Spanish book, is a true story of resilience, imagination, and the profound impact of collective action, offering hope for a sustainable future and demonstrating that miracles are possible with determination and vision.

“The Miracle Forest stands out not only for its environmental message but also for its accessibility as a bilingual English and Spanish text. This thoughtful inclusion makes the story available to a wider audience and enriches the global conversation on sustainable development and environmental activism.” - Alejandro Riveria, language tutor and writing instructor

“This remarkable tale highlights how creativity and determination can solve even the most complex environmental challenges. The Miracle Forest showcases innovations that readers interested in sustainability and eco-friendly solutions will find both practical and inspiring.”
- Carlie Miles, sustainability consultant

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Author's Notes

Sometimes writing The Miracle Forest, I felt like I had to overcome nearly as many obstacles as the people of Gaviotas. 16 years ago, Paolo Lugari was not available online or by email for me to contact. Eventually, my husband volunteered to take my manuscript down to Colombia. But, in order for Paolo to read it, I had to have it professionally translated into Spanish. 

Once Paolo did read my children's book, he gave his enthusiastic blessing along with many photos to help an illustrator. I was on cloud nine, feeling like Jason of the Argonauts back with the Golden Fleece! 

I thought surely a publisher would snap up the inspiring true story of environmental restoration. However, in 2010, people weren't as concerned about climate change. One editor said that my story would only appeal to "crunchy granola types". 

Determined to make the book available to give kids hope and a positive vision, I hired a friend to illustrate. My friend was also running a community farm and it took a couple years longer for her to finish than we anticipated. 

But now, at long last, the book has a publisher and is available for readers. I'm so happy to share this story. For me, it shows how when we humans do our best to work with our local ecologies, nature can respond with miracles beyond our wildest imaginings.

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