Luz Sees the Light

This graphic novel follows protagonist Luz as she works to promote sustainable developments in her community.

Change is in the air. Power outages are increasing, and gas prices are soaring. At first, 12-year-old Luz balks, hardly thrilled by the prospect of actually having to walk to the mall. But Luz doesn’t mope for long. After all, her name — pronounced “loose” — means “light.” Soon, this intelligent and spirited chica begins to understand that she must change with the times. As food prices rise, Luz decides to help create a more self-sustainable community by transforming a run-down city lot into a garden where she and her neighbors can grow their own fruits and vegetables. But when she solicits help from her friends — boy-crazy Anika and computer-whiz Robby — they think she’s a little loco. Luz pedals her idea on the street, but the community is equally dismissive. Can Luz pull off her plan and help change her world alone? This graphic novel is a kid-friendly take on sustainable living in a fossil fuel dependent world. Preteens will love the fearless, fiery and resourceful heroine and will find inspiration in her efforts to steer her society toward self-sustainable living. Hip and energetic illustrations bring Luz and her world to life in a jazzy, appealing fashion, and a bonus chapter teaches kids how to make garden compost.

Author(s): Claudia Dávila

Excerpt from the book of Luz and her mother discussing inflation and its connection to supply chain capitalism. Luz: "Mom, we forgot to get Chocky cookies!" Mom: "Tsk, those come from China! I just told you the imported stuff is costing too much." Luz: Hmpt. Then there should be a Chocky factory here!" Mom: "Dream on. Importing stuff has been cheaper than making it here." Luz: "How come, Mom?" Mom: "Other countries pay their workers less or use cheaper materials, that sort of thing." Luz: "So what happens now?" Mom: "What happens, Luz, is we've got to change the way we shop!"
Excerpt from the book featuring a discussion between Luz and her mother about supply chains and multinational corporations.
Portrait photo of author Claudia Dávila.
Author Claudia Dávila.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.