The Wrestling Cholitas of Bolivia

By Claudia Bellante • Illustrated by Anna Carbone

$ 18.95

“A beautiful entry in the Against All Odds series … In this true story, Noelia and Wara and many cholitas just like them inspire others to stand against prejudice faced by both women and the Indigenous people of Bolivia. Bold colors and patterns showcase the strength and beauty of the main subjects and the other fighting cholitas, while the informative and inspirational prose is set upon decorative text boxes that become part of the artful layout.” —Booklist

About this book

Two girls in Bolivia, with a passion for wrestling, beat the odds in this new empowering picture book

Noelia and Wara are two girls who live in the city of El Alto, Bolivia. Wrestling is their passion. They are often told that “fighting is for boys.” But despite this resistance, every Sunday they proudly put on the traditional costume of the Cholitas, the Aymara women of Bolivia, and head to the ring, where they would fight with courage and defy all the odds stacked against them.

The stories told in the “Against All Odds” picture book series are true stories of brave boys and girls from different parts of the world, who, with their small everyday actions, beat the odds and achieve something great. The series is intended to promote diversity and acceptance by exposing children to kids’ stories from faraway places facing unique situations or overcoming prejudice.

Brand: Claudia Bellante

About the author

Claudia Bellante is a freelance photo and print journalist based in Milan. Her work focuses on the exploration of social changes that begin from the stories of ordinary people. Her work has been featured in publications across the world.

Reviews

“Gr 3-8–Three Muslim girls living in a small Indonesian village discover a passion for heavy metal music, inspired by their teacher who encourages them to indulge without fear. With their teacher’s guidance and their parents’ support, the girls form their own band and make music that connects them to their faith and to their daily lives. Bellante takes great care to touch on the openness of the Islamic faith, dispelling stereotypes. Schargorodsky’s colorful illustrations show contemporary images, with girls wearing hijab with casual clothing, playing musical instruments, and being entirely relatable young women. Pastel colors give the scenes an appealing softness. Back matter includes an author’s note providing context. Inspired by a true story, Girls Rock Indonesia is part of the ‘Against All Odds’ series, spotlighting brave boys and girls from all over the world. VERDICT A recommended first purchase for all collections.” —School Library Journal