By: Joshua Finley
In an inspiring fusion of art and advocacy, Dr. Pizarro has unveiled her latest literary work, “Helena Files North,” alongside its Spanish edition, “Piedad Vuela Al Norte.” Driven by a mission to support Spanish-speaking families, especially those navigating the complexities of undocumented immigration, Dr. Pizarro’s books offer more than just a narrative—they provide vital emotional tools for children and adults alike.
Dr. Pizarro leads a grant-funded program that works closely with children and families, many of whom face the unique challenges of migrating to the United States. “I thought the book was a good way to help this population process their experiences,” she explains. “It teaches coping strategies for trauma, change, and the emotional upheaval that often accompanies moving to a new home and school.”
At the heart of the story is a powerful symbolism: hummingbirds. “These small yet mighty creatures provide emotional distance from the serious themes of the book,” Dr. Pizarro shares. “They embody confidence and resilience, teaching children that they, too, can navigate life’s challenges.”
Through the narrative, children learn essential coping strategies, not just for themselves but also for their families. “The main character learns to calm herself and even teaches her mother positive coping techniques,” Dr. Pizarro notes. This dynamic fosters a sense of agency and confidence in young readers, reinforcing that they can face their fears and anxieties.
The books have quickly garnered acclaim, becoming Amazon bestsellers and earning awards for their focus on diversity and animal-themed literature. Dr. Pizarro attributes this success to the ability of her stories to tackle difficult subjects while maintaining emotional safety. “SEL, or Social-Emotional Learning, is crucial. The earlier we start teaching these skills, the better equipped children will be to handle life’s challenges.”
The back matter of “Helena Files North” is equally impactful, featuring educational sections on immigration and fascinating facts about hummingbirds. “These elements not only educate children but also encourage discussions between kids and their parents,” Dr. Pizarro explains. “It empowers them to reflect on their own uniqueness while fostering awareness about immigration issues.”
Feedback from readers highlights the profound impact of Dr. Pizarro’s work. One teacher remarked, “This story is a great addition to my classroom library. It is a fantastic tool for SEL lessons, teaching essential life skills.” Another reader noted, “The characters exemplify love for family and show that coping skills can help us through difficult situations.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Pizarro is exploring a partnership with Play Therapy Supply, aiming to broaden accessibility to her books. “This collaboration could help marginalized children feel seen and heard,” she asserts. “The availability of a Spanish edition also allows for a wider audience to benefit from these important lessons.”
“Helena Files North” and “Piedad Vuela Al Norte” are more than just stories; they are a call to resilience and hope for children facing life’s adversities. Through her work, Dr. Pizarro is not only telling a story but also empowering a generation.
Published by: Martin De Juan
