Traveling Library: We had a celebration with grandmothers.

Friendship day with grandmothers

In Santiago Atitlan they celebrated friendship day in all the schools and institutions. The Puerta Abierta library was invited to a senior center where they have been sharing weekly stories and events for years.

One Wednesday in February I shared a story with the grandmothers, and it was the first story I have shared with them. Previously I had gone with the grandmothers to accompany Isaias, the former librarian, to watch and learn about different forms of storytelling. During my observation I noticed with Isaías the power of books and storytelling in tz'utujil.

The story I narrated in Tz'utujil was EL MONSTRUO DE LA LA LAGUNA POR CANTICUENTO. What I wanted to achieve with the grandmothers is that they would enjoy a story in Tz'utujil. I, on the other hand, am a musician, so I thought I would sing a moment with them and dance with the story activity.

My expectations were exceeded by the grandmothers, because they had a spectacular energy. The moment that fascinated me the most was when we danced to the story song. Each grandmother imitated me and enjoyed the steps and the rhythm of the cumbia. I loved telling the story in the Tz'utujil language and also being able to communicate in the same language.  

Books continue to impact the community of Santiago Atitlán through the Puerta Abierta Library. Many grandparents, youth and children are enjoying a good story by way of the magic of books and fun fellowship thanks to you. 

We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your great support to our library. We wish to be able to share more stories with more people. 

Miltiox - Thank you