Different: A Story of the Spanish Civil War (Stories from Latin America)

Ages 9 to 14

A resonant, captivating book about a brother and sister caught in a dark chapter of world history.

Between 1936 and 1939, a civil war raged across Spain. For almost three years, ordinary citizens lived in fear of bombs dropping from the sky. When fascist dictator Francisco Franco declared victory, he began to persecute everyone who had once opposed him. Spain became a country of secrets, where anyone who was different was in danger.

Different explores this turbulent period through the voices of seven-year-old Socorro and nine-year-old Paco. Because Papa has fled Spain due to his political beliefs, the siblings and their mother must hide the truth in order to survive. Paco is always hungry, and Socorro is never good enough for her teachers at school. But they can’t ask for more food or better treatment: someone might find out who they are, or—worse—why their father isn’t home anymore. At last a letter from Father arrives, with a chance for their family to reunite in Venezuela …

Dramatic oil-pastel illustrations and poignantly chosen words express the emotions of two children coming of age in a time of extremism and fear. Based on the author’s family history, this middle grade story is a stirring depiction of the Spanish Civil War, its tragic aftermath, and the timeless struggle for freedom from political violence.

About the Author

Mónica Montañés is a Venezuelan journalist, playwright, screenwriter, and author. This book is inspired by her family’s stories of growing up during the Spanish Civil War, living under Franco’s dictatorship, and fleeing to Venezuela. As an adult, Mónica made her ancestors’ journey in reverse, moving from Caracas to Madrid. Different is Mónica’s first book published in English. Follow her on Instagram @monicamontanesc.

Eva Sánchez Gómez is an award-winning artist and illustrator whose other books include The Magician’s Visit (Green Bean). She studied fine arts at the University of Barcelona, then earned an MA in illustration at the University of Valencia. To create the illustrations for this book, Eva drew from period photos and her family’s stories about the era. She lives in Spain. Visit her website at evasanchez.cat or follow her on Instagram @eva_illustration.

Lawrence Schimel is an author, anthologist, and translator of many books in both Spanish and English, including Early One Morning (Orca), Niños, and One Million Oysters on Top of the Mountain (both Eerdmans). His works have received many awards, including the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award, a PEN Translates Award, and the GLIL Translated YA Book Prize Honor. Lawrence lives in Madrid, Spain. Follow him on Twitter @lawrenceschimel.