Author Ellen Dee Davidson
Illustrator Carolan Raleigh-Halsing
Softcover 978-1-961905-13-9
E-book 978-1-961905-10-8
October 2024 | 52 pages | Nonfiction | Age: 8-12 years
Categories: Bilingual children’s books | Nature book for kids | Nature conservation | Sustainable living | Inspirational books for kids | Environmental books | Juvenile nonfiction
The Miracle Forest: A True Story / El Bosque Milagroso: Una Historia Real is a bilingual (English-Spanish) children’s nonfiction book and winner of the 2025 Silver Nautilus Book Award, which honors titles that promote environmental stewardship and social change.
This inspiring true story follows Paolo Lugari and the Gaviotas community in Colombia’s Llanos region as they transform a barren savanna into a thriving, self-sustaining rainforest ecosystem. Their work is a powerful example of what’s possible through perseverance, innovation, and collective effort.
Celebrated for its ecological message and accessible bilingual format, The Miracle Forest invites young readers into a global conversation about regeneration, hope, and the future of our planet.
Retailers and schools, bring our transformative stories to your community. Wholesale inquiries welcome via our Contact page. Schools receive a 10% discount on all purchases.
12 Willows titles can also be purchased from all major bookseller platforms.
How to use The Miracle Forest / El Bosque Milagroso in learning
The Miracle Forest / El Bosque Milagroso is a bilingual (English-Spanish) children’s nonfiction book that tells the inspiring true story of Paolo Lugari and the Gaviotas community in Colombia’s Llanos region. Educators and parents can utilize this book to enrich learning experiences in various ways:
-
Explore Environmental Science: Discuss ecosystems, reforestation, and sustainable living practices.
-
Enhance Language Skills: Use the bilingual text to practice reading and comprehension in both English and Spanish.
-
Inspire Community Projects: Encourage students to develop initiatives that promote environmental stewardship in their local areas.eepro.naaee.org
-
Foster Creativity: Have students create art or write essays inspired by the themes of the book.
Free lesson plans in both English and Spanish are available to complement the book’s content.
In the media
Archangel Ancient Tree Archive – “The Power of Nature and Community:
AATA’s Special Connection with ‘The Miracle Forest'” – October 24, 2024
Natural Awakenings Chicago – “Nature Immersion: The Healing Power of Wilderness”
by Ellen Dee Davidson – March 31, 2025
Spirit of Change – “Angel Trees” by Ellen Dee Davidson – April 14, 2025
Evolution Radio Show – Gwilda Wiyaka – “Ellen Dee Davidson –
Healing Through Forest Bathing” – April 23, 2025
“The Miracle Forest / El Bosque Milagroso stands out not only for its environmental message but also for its accessibility as a bilingual English and Spanish text. This thoughtful inclusion makes the story available to a wider audience and enriches the global conversation on sustainable development and environmental activism.”
—Alejandro Riveria, language tutor and writing instructor
“This remarkable tale highlights how creativity and determination can solve even the most complex environmental challenges. The Miracle Forest / El Bosque Milagroso showcases innovations that readers interested in sustainability and eco-friendly solutions will find both practical and inspiring.”
—Carlie Miles, sustainability consultant
“The Miracle Forest / El Bosque Milagroso is an inspiring testament to the power of human ingenuity and perseverance in restoring nature. This story offers readers a much-needed sense of hope for the future of our planet and showcases the potential for environmental renewal even in the harshest conditions.”
—Dr. Maria Gonzalez, ecologist and environmental policy expert
“At its heart, The Miracle Forest / El Bosque Milagroso is a moving exploration of resilience, both personal and environmental. Readers will be inspired by the determination of a small group of people who refuse to give up on their dream of creating a harmonious world for humans and nature.”
—Lydia Brown, mental health advocate and author
“The Miracle Forest / El Bosque Milagroso offers more than just an incredible success story; it provides practical lessons for sustainable living. Readers will walk away with a deep understanding of how innovative solutions can lead to a more harmonious relationship with the Earth.”
—Elliot Davis, sustainability and technology consultant