Nestor Lopez can talk to animals. The problem is, they won’t stop talking back.
Adrianna Cuevas’ “The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez” is a vibrant middle-grade novel that weaves magical realism with themes of family and environmental stewardship. This Pura Belpré Honor Book and NYPL Best Book of 2020 follows Nestor, a Cuban American military kid who moves to Texas to live with his grandmother while his father is deployed. Nestor’s life takes a fantastical turn when he discovers he can communicate with animals, a secret he’s desperate to hide. But when local pets vanish and his grandmother is blamed, Nestor teams up with new friends to uncover the truth: a shape-shifting witch, the tule vieja, is stealing animals’ powers. Balancing humor, heart, and Panamanian-Costa Rican folklore, the story explores Nestor’s journey to protect his community and confront his fears about belonging.
This book shines as a tool for teaching SDG 15: Life on Land, as it underscores the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the consequences of disrupting natural balance. The tule vieja’s exploitation of animals sparks discussions about biodiversity and stewardship, while Nestor’s bond with creatures large and small models empathy for all living things. Educators can use the novel to explore how myths reflect cultural relationships with nature or launch projects where students research local wildlife conservation efforts.
Nestor is a Thinker when he solves problems through teamwork and creativity, and is both Caring and a Risk-Taker when he protects others ahead of his own safety. Try pairing the book with science units on food chains or writing prompts that ask students to imagine solutions for real-world environmental threats. Its fast-paced plot and relatable character make it ideal for talking about resilience and our responsibility to the planet.
