GLXi Teacher Book Favorites: The Story Behind the Story
Step inside a GLXi-supported classroom in Guatemala, and you will instantly feel the energy. Children gather on the rug, eyes wide, leaning forward as their teacher opens a book.
These aren’t just reading lessons; they are gateways to imagination, critical thinking, and empathy.
The magic happens when the right book lands in the hands of a passionate educator.
To give you a peek inside these vibrant spaces, we asked six GLXi teachers to share the books their students love most, and the powerful lessons hidden between their pages.
Here is a look at six classroom favorites, straight from the teachers who use them to change lives every day.
🐆 1. Connecting to Roots
The Book: “Balam the Great Jaguar!” by Itala Vettorazzi
The Teacher: Heidi Aguilar (Preschool, Quetzaltenango)
For Teacher Heidi’s youngest learners, this beautifully illustrated story is an introduction to both language and history. The plot follows Balam, a powerful jaguar, who helps the animals of the forest organize and work together to rebuild after a devastating storm.
“I love this book because it tells the story of our ancestors, focusing on nature ... and the Maya culture, using language appropriate for students,” says Teacher Heidi. She added it carries a vital message: “No matter how high we are, we can always learn from others. We should always keep moving forward, be grateful, learn to share, and respect others.”
🚌 2. Building Kindness and Community
The Book: “Good Manners in Public” by Carrie Finn (Illustrated by Chris Lensch)
The Teacher: Delia Cárdenas (Preschool, Quetzaltenango)
Preschool is the very first time many children interact with a larger community. Teacher Delia uses this book to help her students navigate the world outside their homes, whether greeting people on the bus or waiting patiently in lines. Because the illustrations are so expressive, children don't even need to know how to read yet to understand the core message, she says.
“The book conveys that children should learn to be courteous to all people, and in (turn) they will receive kind treatment from others. It teaches us to treat people the way we would like to be treated, strengthening the value of empathy.”
🤝 3. Creating a Safe Space to Speak Up
The Book: “We All Need Help from Time to Time” by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos
The Teacher: Ana Cardenas (Preschool, Quetzaltenango)
Asking for help can be incredibly intimidating for a child, especially if they are facing bullying or fear. Teacher Ana uses this gentle story to build a culture of safety and trust inside her classroom walls, ensuring her 4- to 6-year-old students know they are never alone.
“We all need help sometimes. Asking for help can be difficult, especially when you do not know who to turn to. But there are people you can talk to who will listen to your problems and help you find ways to solve them. It is always okay to ask for help.”
📜 4. Uncovering History and Changing Perspectives
The Book: “The Mysterious Cry of La Llorona” by Celso Lara Figueroa
The Teacher: Jessica de Alonzo (2nd Grade, Quetzaltenango)
While preschool focuses heavily on social-emotional growth, second-grade teachers like Jessica use literature to spark complex analytical thinking. By reading this suspenseful take on the classic colonial-era legend, her students dive deep into history and social dynamics.
“(The book) creates suspense and excitement due to its plot, but when properly guided by the teacher, it allows students to analyze and compare the (past) with the present, especially regarding the role of women.”
🦊 5. Outsmarting Prejudices and Assumptions
The Book: “The Mysterious Case of the Missing Chickens” by Kirsten Collier
The Teacher: Yeimy Cifuentes (Preschool/Early Elementary, Quetzaltenango)
When chickens start disappearing from a farm, the farmer immediately blames the local fox. But the fox is innocent and decides to investigate the mystery himself. Teacher Yeimy loves this clever story because it keeps students guessing until a massive plot twist completely flips their expectations.
“This book allows us to reflect on the assumptions we make about others and teaches us to be observant and analytical before forming an opinion.”
🌳 6. Empowering the Next Generation of Protectors
The Book: “Balam the Great Jaguar! “ by Itala Vettorazzi
The Teacher: Rosa Chan (1st Grade, Guatemala City)
Proving that a truly great book resonates across different ages and regions, Teacher Rosa also highlights Balam the Great Jaguar as her top classroom tool. For her first-grade students who are actively learning to read and write, the durable binding and clear layout are perfect for hands-on learning.
“(The book) makes it easier to recognize words while reading, and its illustrations can spark imagination,” says Teacher Rosa. She adds it carries an important message: “It is important to take care of our environment so that it remains pleasant.”
Shaping Young Minds
These six books do more than occupy space in a classroom; they shape minds, build empathy, and inspire critical thinking.
While our official Teacher Month celebrations have wrapped up, the reality remains: supporting GLXi teachers is what makes moments like these possible.
Every single book mentioned above sits on a classroom shelf because of our global community. When donors fund an 85-book classroom library, they aren't just sending paper and ink to Guatemala. They are handing a teacher the exact tool they need to spark a love for reading, protect the environment, and teach children that their voices matter. We are so grateful for your continued support.
Stand with a teacher. Change a generation.
Click here to help us put more life-changing books into GLXi classrooms today.