The Rainforest of Words: Exploring Brazil's Literary Landscape
- Mikayla Young
- Jan 4
- 4 min read
Brazilian literature is a treasure trove of diverse voices and perspectives that can transport readers to vibrant landscapes and rich cultures. This blog post will explore books set in Brazil, written by authors hailing from this magnificent nation. Whether you are a seasoned reader of international literature or simply curious about Brazil, these selections promise to awaken your sense of adventure and broaden your literary horizons.
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Children's/Middle Grade
Brazilian Setting
Genres: Fantasy Folktale
Picture Book
Ages: 4+
Turtle, who loves to dance and play the flute, faces danger when her music draws a hunter's attention, leading to her capture for turtle stew. Her escape relies on the hunter's children and her own cleverness. This Brazilian folktale, now told across Latin America, varies with each culture but consistently celebrates Turtle's survival through courage and wit. Illustrated with vibrant watercolors by David Boston, the story unfolds in the lush Amazon rainforest. READING LEVELS: Lexile Level: 570L; Guided Reading: K
Brazilian Author
Genres: Fiction
Picture Book
Ages: 4+
Saudade is a deep, melancholic longing for something once cherished, a feeling familiar to anyone who has reminisced about a place, person, or experience. This Portuguese and Galician term, with no perfect English translation, is explored through the story of a Brazilian immigrant mother and her daughter. They reflect on what evokes saudade in their lives, from a salty breeze far from the ocean to the scent of great-grandma’s perfume and memories of family gatherings. Although rooted in Brazilian culture, saudade resonates universally, especially with those far from loved ones or in new homes. Ana Crespo shares her personal experience of saudade in an endnote, and a glossary explains Portuguese terms used in the narrative. Andre Ceolin’s vivid illustrations capture the bittersweet and profoundly human essence of this story.
Brazilian Setting and Author
Genres: Fiction
Picture Book
Ages: 4+
Clara eagerly anticipates celebrating Carnaval, her favorite holiday, with her family, especially her great-grandmother. Although her great-grandmother, Bisa, might not attend, Clara feels the parade will remain special. Everyone, dressed in costumes lovingly made by Bisa, joins the street festivities. Amidst the vibrant colors, costumes, music, and dancing, something—or someone—seems missing.
Young Adult
Brazilian Author
Genres: Fantasy Fiction
Novel
Ages: 14+
Thomas, an eighteen-year-old burdened by the loss of his parents, finds solace in his unique ability to see musical creatures invisible to others. Despite his wealth and fame, his true connection to the world is through music. A fateful encounter with strangers unveils his secret, attracting the attention of those who wish to exploit it. Dr. Alonso and his daughter, Dora, lure him into a cult, threatening his freedom. Marlui, a young Guarani shaman, senses the peril and pledges to save him from their clutches. As Thomas teeters on the brink of losing his heart and powers, Marlui must act swiftly to protect him.
Brazilian Author
Genres: Literary Fiction
Novel
Ages: 16+
At thirteen, Vanja finds herself adrift, grappling with the loss of her mother and a sense of belonging. She is in a foreign country, living with a stepfather whose history is as turbulent as her emotions. Determined to find her biological father, Vanja leaves Rio de Janeiro for Colorado, embarking on a journey that leads her across continents and into the depths of her family's past. "Crow Blue" unfolds as a lyrical exploration of identity, family, and the shadows cast by political history, tracing Vanja's quest for truth and self-discovery.
Adult
Brazilian Setting
Genres: Nonfiction Sports
Nonfiction
Ages: 18+
The Brazilian game, celebrated for its excellence and captivating style, is often associated with World Cup triumphs. However, the most significant changes in Brazilian football arose from the Selecao's failures. "Shocking Brazil" delves into six pivotal World Cup campaigns that transformed Brazilian football and had impacts beyond the sport. These stories reveal underlying issues of racism, corruption, authoritarianism, and corporate greed. This compelling narrative through Brazil's football history is both enlightening and shocking.
Brazilian Author
Genres: Contemporary Romance
Novel
Ages: 18+
Sol Carvalho is eager to advance her career in Copenhagen, the happiest city on earth. However, to secure a promotion, she needs to settle in Denmark with a stable home and relationship, which she lacks. Enter Erik Storm, a Viking look-alike who might just be her ticket to success, if he agrees to be her roommate and fake boyfriend. Erik is wary, having lost everything in a past roommate arrangement. Yet, Sol is determined to win him over by promising to outsmart their shared tech rival. As their fake relationship progresses, the boundaries between pretense and reality blur, leading them to question if they can truly trust their hearts this time.
Brazil Setting
Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir
Nonfiction
Ages: 18+
Daniel Everett's extraordinary journey with the Pirahã tribe in the Amazon reveals a unique language and culture that challenge conventional linguistic theories. Arriving in 1977 as a missionary, Everett intended to convert the Pirahã but instead discovered a language without counting or color terms and a society living entirely in the present, devoid of war and personal property concepts. Over three decades, Everett's seven-year engagement with the tribe transformed his understanding of language and life, leading to a loss of his own religious faith. His compelling narrative intertwines linguistic exploration, anthropological insight, and personal memoir, offering profound reflections on the nature of language, thought, and existence.
Conclusion
Brazilian literature is an intricate tapestry of narratives that provide an authentic glimpse into the hearts and minds of its people.
These stories are not only literary gifts but also serve as cultural bridges that illuminate Brazil's diverse history, social issues, and the complex realities faced by its inhabitants. If you’re looking to expand your reading list, these essential Brazilian works promise to engage your imagination and foster a deeper understanding of this enchanting country.
Exploring these authors will enrich one's literary journey while simultaneously unveiling the vibrant culture that Brazil has to offer.
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