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Becky Villareal has spent most of her life as an elementary school teacher and genealogist. She has combined her two passions incorporating them into her children’s book series. Becky has presented at national organizations and libraries throughout the United States utilizing her knowledge of children, writing, and family history research. Her goal is to share her excitement and inspire all children to learn more about their heritage.
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Halito, Gianna! is a children's adventure by Becky Villareal. Gianna Saldana is a curious child. Raised by a single mother, Gianna often wonders about her father and wants nothing more than to learn his identity. She finally gets her chance to learn more about her family history when Mr. Williams, their teacher in the history club, takes Gianna and her classmate, Matthew Jacobs, to the computer lab. With Mr. Williams' help, Gianna quickly discovers that her father is John Parish, a soldier who used to be stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, where he met Gianna's mother. Circumstances pushed her parents' lives in different directions. When Aponi, a Chocktaw girl from Oklahoma, joins Gianna's class, she unexpectedly finds a clue that could reunite her with her father. What's next in store for Gianna and her family?
Halito, Gianna! is a heartwarming mystery and adventure for kids. Full of heart, humor, and good-natured charm, the story and the characters will make you smile and leave you with a warm glow in your heart. Apart from the story itself, author Becky Villareal also provides engaging historical facts about the Chocktaw people and seamlessly weaves these into the narrative. The characters are very well-defined and have unique personality traits that will endear them to the reader. Gianna is an adorable child who you want to succeed in her search for her father. Among the secondary characters, I enjoyed both Matthew and Aponi and found them immensely likable. I also loved the ending and found it very satisfying. Preteen readers will find a lot to love about this book. So immerse yourself in an entertaining tale featuring a few fascinating history lessons!
