A Festa for Luana - by Joana Pastro (Hardcover)

About the Book

When Launa visits her grandparents in Brazil she feels out of place but learns to appreciate both her American and Brazilian heritage during Festa Junina.

Book Synopsis

A young Brazilian American girl navigates the concept of belonging when she celebrates the Brazilian Festa Junina festival with her family in this remarkable picture book about embracing all aspects of one's identity.

Pretty little details can help...
tell the story of who I am.

Luana has been counting down the days until she can visit her grandparents in Brazil. She's just in time for Festa Junina, a vibrant celebration where people dance, eat, and dress up in all sorts of colors!

But Luana feels...different. Her clothes are too plain, and her cousins comment on her American accent. She doesn't feel Brazilian. Luckily, with a little help from her family and a new tradition, Luana learns that every part of her story is important, and she belongs after all!

Review Quotes

"Oliva's vivid ­pastel and colored pencil illustrations blend relaxed strokes of warm cinnamon and maroon, lush emerald and juniper, and vibrant plum and orchid. . . . Pastro seamlessly integrates ­Brazilian Portuguese words, which are easily decipherable from context clues for readers not familiar with the language. . . . A rare representation of the ­Brazilian celebration Festa Junina, this tender story of identity and belonging will linger in the hearts of ­readers."--School Library Journal "3/15/25"

"The illustrations shimmer with saturated colors, rendering the people and festivities in vibrant detail as Luana throws herself into preparations, helping the adults set up games and start the bonfire, and dancing to the music of the quadrilha. Pastro depicts a confident protagonist who is vulnerable to feeling different but bold enough to reclaim it as an asset. Back matter adds the author's personal touch, and a recipe for bolo de fubá invites everyone to celebrate Festa Junina."--Booklist "5/1/25"

"This heartfelt journey celebrates the beauty of embracing multiple cultures and the joy of finding one's place within a loving family. . . . A delightful story of cultural connection and belonging."--Kirkus Reviews "4/15/25"

About the Author

Joana Pastro is the award-winning author of Bisa's Carnaval, Lucas and the Capoeira Circle, and LillyBelle: A Damsel NOT in Distress. Much like Lucas, sometimes she loses her ginga. Luckily, she's always been able to get it back. Originally from Brazil, Joana lives in Georgia with her husband, her three extremely creative children, a rambunctious Morkie, and a needy Maltipoo. Visit her at JoanaPastro.com.

Duda Oliva is a Latin American illustrator from Brazil who is deeply inspired by impressionism and magical realism. His art tells stories that hope to empower, comfort, and surprise people through folklore, nature, and South and Central America imagery. In his free time, he can usually be found in museums, parks, or hanging out and drawing with his friends. You can find more of his work at DudaOliva.com.