The main character, Esperanza, a young girl of about 9-11 years old lost her way in the Fabled Fairy Forest. Thankfully, an enchanted tree and twelve fairies guided her way out and back on to the path of the world with advice, words of wisdom and quotable quotes to live by. These are all good and beautiful things. The fairies are vividly illustrated carrying symbols of virtues that each of them represent. The emblems and sigils of the fairies can lead readers, the young and the old into discussions of its cultural origins and philosophies.
Take for example, the terno and saya worn by the Fairy of Hope reminds me of the Filipiniana costume and attire Filipina women wear on special events and family gatherings. Even the design and weave of the saya or the skirt seem inspired from an indigenous culture in the Philippines or a country from Southeast Asia. It is the same with rest of the fairies and how each is illustrated.
Abundant in encouraging words, but limited in scenes and events that allow agency, Esperanza remains a passive participant from start to finish. The verse is eloquent and beautiful, but I would rather see Esperanza work hard and own the virtues bestowed upon her by the fairies.
I am going to hazard a guess. Maybe, Hope and Fortune is an introduction to a series where Esperanza applies herself after gleaning wisdom and virtue from the twelve fairies?
Book Review Rating: 3 bookmarks over 5
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