Bridging Cultures, Preserving Voices: The Journey of Bilingual Books and the Urgency of Language Preservation
By Safina Center Fellow Kike Calvo
Kike Calvo, delivering bilingual books during a Colombia Photo Expeditions tour to eager minds at Turco Gil School, nestled amidst the vibrant rhythms of Valledupar's renowned Vallenato music scene. ©Bob Schafer for Little Explorer, Big World
At Little Explorer, Big World, we firmly believe in the transformative power of stories to forge connections across diverse languages and cultures. Our mission to craft bilingual books is rooted in the profound recognition that each language encapsulates a unique trove of wisdom, tradition, and heritage.
In remote communities where access to varied literature might be scarce, our bilingual books serve as invaluable windows to the world. They not only safeguard native languages but also introduce new linguistic landscapes, broadening horizons for readers. Through vibrant storytelling, we honor and celebrate diversity, weaving tales that resonate deeply with both children and adults, transcending linguistic barriers.
Once a story breathes life onto the pages, it embarks on a magical journey of translation. Our dedicated translators—many of whom are integral members of local communities—delicately intertwine narratives, preserving authenticity while illuminating the story’s brilliance in the second language. The translation process, especially into Indigenous languages, is a meticulous yet essential endeavor—one that carries immense significance.
Education in Colombia's Amazon Basin, where knowledge needs support to blossom in harmony with the world's most biodiverse rainforest. ©Fundación Omacha for Little Explorer, Big World
An alarming truth underscores our mission: the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization reports that approximately 40% of the world's nearly 6,000 languages face endangerment, with a substantial portion being indigenous languages. Shockingly, every two weeks we witness the disappearance of a distinct indigenous language, erasing invaluable cultural wisdom, traditions, and perspectives forever. This loss of linguistic diversity represents a profound erosion of human heritage and knowledge, emphasizing the urgent need to preserve and rejuvenate these languages.
These ongoing campaigns are in need of additional funding to reach completion and continue making a lasting impact:
Madagascar: Printing and Donation of 1,000 copies of our French-Malagasy bilingual book Wildlife of Madagascar, partnering with the ValBio Create.
Haiti: Printing and Donation of 2,000 copies of our French-Creole book Birds of Hispaniola and Wildlife of Haiti, partnering with Haiti National Trust and Audubon Haiti.
Supporting Little Explorer, Big World (formerly The Adventures of Pili), helps inspire children; donates bilingual books; plants native trees; and brings education to remote places.
With each bilingual book we deliver, we take strides towards nurturing inclusivity and empathy, sowing seeds of curiosity in the hearts of readers young and old. These books embark on a remarkable journey, traversing terrains and overcoming logistical challenges to finally land in the hands of children and families in remote areas. Witnessing the sheer joy and excitement on their faces as they immerse themselves in these stories reaffirms the profound importance of our mission.
Education in Colombia's Amazon Basin, where knowledge needs support to blossom in harmony with the world's most biodiverse rainforest. ©Fundación Omacha for Little Explorer, Big World
As gratitude fills many hearts around tables in the United States, I am compelled to extend my deepest appreciation to the incredible network of organizations, volunteers, donors, and advocates who steadfastly support our cause. Your unwavering dedication fuels our journey, allowing us to bring bilingual books to the farthest corners of the world. To our translators, artists, logistical experts, and generous contributors—your commitment forms the bedrock of our success. It is through this unified effort and shared vision that we break barriers, fostering literacy, understanding, and cultural appreciation in remote communities. Each of you deserves celebration, for without your invaluable contributions, our mission would remain but a distant dream.
We're also thrilled to announce the release of several captivating audiobooks on Audible, bringing stories to life in a whole new way. In celebration of this launch, we're offering an incredible opportunity for all avid listeners out there in the United States and the United Kingdom. If you're willing to share your thoughts and insights with us through a review, we're providing free access to these audiobooks! Immerse yourself in these tales, let the narratives whisk you away, and in return, your valuable feedback will help us continue crafting exceptional listening experiences.
Our new releases include The Untold Story of Destiny; The Richest Hummingbird in the Rainforest; Ms. M´s Cold Pointy Nose; The Girl Who Planted a Forest; The Magical Musical Journey; and The Moon is Made of Dreams.
Join us in this journey of exploration and storytelling, and together, let's create a world where stories resonate and inspire.
Children from the main branch of CER Campanario after participating in an educational activity using the bilingual text The Adventures of Pili in Colombia, celebrating Biodiversity Day in the municipality of Abrego, Norte de Santander, Colombia. ©CER Campanario for Little Explorer, Big World