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Double Trouble on the Comarca
Trouble in the Comarca! Whatever is happening in the Ngäbe Comarca in Panama, Central America. Maritza, a ten-year-old girl, and her pet iguana, Yimy, are the culprits. A story about a young girl secretly taking her pet iguana in her backpack to school to keep him safe. After swearing her friends to secrecy and overcoming scary circumstances on their way to school, the friends arrive at school. However, Yimy then escapes and causes chaos. What happens to Yimy, and does Maritza find a way to keep him safe at home? A story set in the Ngäbe Comarca, showcasing the daily life of children in the Comarca, with cultural awareness and respect. An educational aspect for children who are unaware of how other children live in the world, but who share similar thoughts and feelings.
72 pages, Paperback
Published August 7, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
October 14, 2025
Valuable Life Lesson
I think there is a valuable life lesson for kids in this story. The story centers on Maritza, a young girl who decides to take her beloved iguana, Yimy, to school—against her friends’ advice. Her friends discourage her, worried they’ll all get into trouble with their teacher. In a way, they hold her accountable, showing a kind of community responsibility that is both realistic and meaningful for children to see. Maritza’s choice comes from a genuine fear that she doesn’t trust her parents to keep him safe. When things go wrong and Yimy escapes, Maritza’s friends—despite their earlier concerns—still come together to help her find him. Through this experience, Maritza learns the importance of honesty, trust, and taking responsibility for her actions. She admits her mistake, and in the end, her parents show compassion and support. One of the standout features of this book is how the author includes “Thought Questions” at the end of each chapter. These questions make it a great tool for parents, teachers, or counselors to guide discussions about decision-making, accountability, and empathy. Highly recommended for children and families. It’s a gentle and meaningful reminder that even when we make mistakes, honesty and support from others can help us learn and grow.
I think there is a valuable life lesson for kids in this story. The story centers on Maritza, a young girl who decides to take her beloved iguana, Yimy, to school—against her friends’ advice. Her friends discourage her, worried they’ll all get into trouble with their teacher. In a way, they hold her accountable, showing a kind of community responsibility that is both realistic and meaningful for children to see. Maritza’s choice comes from a genuine fear that she doesn’t trust her parents to keep him safe. When things go wrong and Yimy escapes, Maritza’s friends—despite their earlier concerns—still come together to help her find him. Through this experience, Maritza learns the importance of honesty, trust, and taking responsibility for her actions. She admits her mistake, and in the end, her parents show compassion and support. One of the standout features of this book is how the author includes “Thought Questions” at the end of each chapter. These questions make it a great tool for parents, teachers, or counselors to guide discussions about decision-making, accountability, and empathy. Highly recommended for children and families. It’s a gentle and meaningful reminder that even when we make mistakes, honesty and support from others can help us learn and grow.
September 20, 2025
"Double Trouble on the Comarca" by Jane E. Ruth is an excellent children's book for those transitioning from early readers to chapter books. Teachers and children alike will enjoy learning about another culture, pet care and responsibility, and especially about iguanas. Each chapter begins with illustrations, while the book ends with study questions, iguana facts, and a teacher's guide. It's definitely recommended!
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews