Pan y Frijol

Embark on a mysticaljourney through Guatemala's underworld with Guicho and Ska.

In Pan y Frijol, Guicho, a 19-year-old boy with dreams of becoming a photographer, finds himselfthrust into the eerie Mayan underworld of Xibalba following a tragic accident. Here, he encounters Ska, a ten-year-old Mayan girl with an enigmatic history. Bound by their shared circumstances, they embark on an epic journey to collect nine Quetzal feathers, the key to securing their return to the world of the living.

Their journey takes them from the haunting mountains of Xela to the beautiful Pacific coast, each place teeming with enchanting characters: a talking tigrillo, an abuela with a magical food stand, the etherealspirits of las tres hermanas, and more.

As they traverse these mystical terrains, Guicho and Ska explore the captivating country of Guatemala while also searching their hearts. They grapple with their impoverished realityand the struggle of maintaining their cultural identity, all while seeking ways to improve their homeland and pursue their dreams.

Pan y Frijol is a blend of fantasy and reality that delves into the heart of Guatemalan culture. The narrative is infused with Spanishphrases, offering a cultural immersion that will appeal to those studying the language. Despitethe underlying serious themes, the book is ultimately uplifting, sprinkled with a humor and hope reflective of the Guatemalan spirit.