by Craig Klein Dexemple

An engaging, action-packed short novel for first-year Spanish students. Written in the present tense, the book is built on a list of 350-plus Spanish nouns, verbs, and common expressions. As they read, students acquire basic vocabulary and grammar while gaining confidence with the target language; they also learn about fascinating places and people in Colombia.

The main character is 12-year-old Peter from Des Moines, Iowa. A video-game enthusiast and avid reader, Peter learns about Colombia from his Spanish teacher and decides to visit. But once there surprises meet him at every turn: chilly Bogota contrasts with tropical Cartagena; stunning multicolored jungle birds contrast with scary piranhas; and a kind man with books contrasts with rural poverty and isolation. Drawing readers to Peter's adventure, Peter va a Colombia keeps students engaged and involved. As they read, they will wonder: What is Bogota like? What foods do Colombians enjoy? Will the piranhas eat Peter? Do poor Colombian children enjoy books as much as they do? In this book students will find answers to these and other questions.