The Legend of the Black Lake
Written by Tania Maria Rodrigues-Peters
Illustrations by Felipe Campos
Translated from Brazilian Portuguese to English by Paula Vaz-Carreiro
Published by Ceditora, hardcover
Katharina is a beautiful and kind young woman who lives “approximately a very, very long time ago” in Austria. Every day she walks by the crystalline and magical lake near her home and tells it all about her dreams and fears. One day at the lake, Katharina meets a young man named Paul. Paul is as black as night while Katharina is very, very white. What will happen when her parents meet Paul? Why does the lake turn black?
The Legend of the Black Lake exposes the pain that prejudice causes. In a direct but gentle manner, it shows what happens when someone is rejected simply for the color of their skin.
Tania’s writing style is enthusiastic and playful. The story is told through an old man talking to a young child, so it is childlike in nature.
Although the artwork is in black and white, a blend of techniques and textures are used which accentuate the playfulness of Tania’s storytelling. The cover art uses warm and inviting red, brown, and green water colors.
Author, illustrator, and translator biographies are included in the back of the book as well as information about the real Black Lake. Since Tania is an accomplished cook, there is a recipe for the authentic Austrian dish that is mentioned in the story: Kasknopfle.
An enjoyable read that gives the opportunity to discuss with children about people who are different from them.
(The reviewer received no payment from anyone for this review.)