Children’s books are magical portals to worlds where imagination knows no bounds. From the whimsical tales of talking animals to fantastical adventures in far-off lands, these books ignite curiosity and foster creativity. Vibrant illustrations breathe life into characters, captivating young minds and sparking endless wonder. Through stories of friendship, bravery, and discovery, children learn valuable lessons about empathy, resilience, and the power of imagination. Whether it’s the comforting familiarity of bedtime stories or the thrill of exploring new realms, children’s books serve as timeless companions on the journey of growing up, leaving an indelible mark on both hearts and minds.

Brownsville native Lucille Newton Cascos has a new children’s book that centers around a young opossum named Tikito titled “Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio: Father and Son’s Life Lessons of a Brownsville Native Opossum Who Dared to Dream.” I attended a book signing she had on Friday at Surge Mobile Physical Therapy in Olmito. Lucille took the time to sign copies of the book and take pictures with guests and children. There was a costumed opossum greeting visitors and entertaining the children and guests were treated to fruit, cheese, and other snacks. The atmosphere was celebratory and cheerful as those in attendance were excited to have a book all about a common sight in the valley, an opossum. The author is looking forward to more book signings in area schools and libraries and confirmed that there could be more books in the future as a series.

The book is recommended for older children and is both entertaining and educational. It has colorful illustrations and plenty of reading comprehension words to help young readers improve their language skills. The glossary of vocabulary terms in the back comes in handy in case there’s a word or two they need to look up. The story is poignant and inspiring and explores the themes of family, culture, and the importance of being true to yourself. Thank you, Lucille, for shining a light on this often misunderstood marsupial. Congratulations – it was a pleasure meeting you.

“Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio” aims to make learning fun and engaging for children around the world, introducing them to animals, cultures, and the Spanish language. By combining these elements, Lucille hopes to inspire a sense of discovery and foster curiosity and a love for learning in young readers.

Tiko and his rascally son, Tikito, live in the alleyways of Brownsville, Texas, where they escape the assault and dangers of the outside world. Having lived among humans, Tiko tries to shield his young son against the treachery around them, ultimately sharing the life lessons Tikito will need to survive. (Amazon, 2024)

For Kids Ages 7-9, 10-12. Grades 2-8
Educational, 70+ Target Reading Comprehension Words

“As the seasons changed, Tikito always remembered one thing that stuck in his head from all of his father’s wisdom: even within a short time, everyone can leave a lasting impact and create a legacy worth remembering.”