Author Maryliana Wickus shares that her award-winning book, La Pluma del Condor, was inspired by her experience at the Cincinnati Waldorf School.
Many students at the Cincinnati Waldorf School are already familiar with the award-winning story told by Nana Condor in The Feather of the Condor — not only because this book has been utilized by our Spanish faculty but also because the story actually has its origins right here at the Cincinnati Waldorf School.
Thanks to a Learning Links grant generously provided by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, CWS Parent and Awakening Breath founder Maryliana Wickus had the opportunity to do a year-long Indigenous Storytelling project at the Cincinnati Waldorf School. During these storytelling sessions, Maryliana would tell a variety of indigenous stories and bring objects with powerful meaning and medicine, like the condor feather.
While the students could hold the feathers and feel their magic, Maryliana longed to create a story that would bring the medicine of the condor feather to life for CWS students, and for all children. This result is The Feather of the Condor.
This story, beautifully illustrated by Laura Munoz, has now been published and is the recipient of the prestigious International Latino Book Award for Best Children's Picture Book in Spanish.
Maryliana is grateful for her experience at the Cincinnati Waldorf School, which led to the creation of this book. According to Mama Condor, the story is about reconnecting with our hearts, with mother earth/nature, and with all creation. It encourages kids to spend more time outdoors in connection with nature and less time with screens.
This beautiful and colorful story reminds us of the importance of slowing down, looking inward and connecting with all that surrounds us. It brings us back to the way our ancestors used to walk regarding the cycles of nature and everything that exists. The story also reminds us of the importance of remembering the ways in which our ancestors used to live — in relationship with everything, in reciprocity and respect for all forms of life.
"I hope you enjoy it and that these messages deeply touch your hearts," says Maryliana.
The book is available in English and Spanish on Amazon and from other major book retailers.
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