Official Review: Diving for El Corazon by Charlie Damitz

[Erin Dydek]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Diving for El Corazon" by Charlie Damitz.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Diving for El Corazon, by Charlie Damitz, is a fable-like story about a young boy named Paco growing up in poverty in a small fishing village in Mexico. Paco’s faith in the existence of a magical ring known as El Corazon alters the course of his life and his perspective of the world around him. Cliff diving becomes his passion in his search for El Corazon and the fame and fortune it could provide. But success is not always what it seems.

As he grows and matures, Paco must learn to solve a problem that affects both his humble village and the ocean friends he has come to love and respect. Will Paco let his youthful anger get the best of him, or will he decide to embrace responsibility and find a resolution?

This short story was a beautiful tale of adventure with simple but profound lessons. I loved how the author used the reflective thoughts of a likable young boy to introduce a mix of magic and reality as we follow Paco on his journey of growth and discovery. It was a pleasure to watch Paco learn how to reconsider his actions as he matured in his thinking and behaviors throughout the story. He did not always do the right thing on the first try, but he observed the nature of the ocean world and learned to solve problems and control his emotions.

I also loved learning about the different ocean life throughout the story. Dolphins and other sea creatures played a significant role in Paco’s everyday life, and I enjoyed observing the patterns and behaviors of these spectacular creatures in a whole new way. The ocean setting also added to the magic and mystery surrounding the legendary ring and held my interest throughout this robust and engaging tale.

I further loved the closing scenes that brought the story full circle. Initially, I had a few concerns that Paco’s solution to the problem may cause a different challenge in the future. Still, within the context of the story, I was satisfied with his practical solution. The only thing I didn’t like about this story was how the fishing captain—whom Paco worked for—decided to handle the problem, but this was a minor part of the story that didn’t seem to have lasting effects for Paco’s story.

There were a few minor grammatical errors, but the book was overall well-edited. The well-written and engaging tale fits a 4 out of 4 rating. With clean content, no swearing, and relevant lessons and themes, Diving for El Corazon is appropriate for readers of all ages. I believe that those who enjoy ocean adventures with a bit of magic will love this story, and parents may even want to read it out loud with their young children. And if you love dolphin stories, you will not want to miss this delightful tale!

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Diving for El Corazon
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[Jeremie Mondejar]

This book seems a good tale for children. I rarely read ocean adventure books, but this one catches my attention. Thanks for this insightful review.

[Iva Stoyanova]

Sounds like a simple and easy read both for kids and adults. I enjoy reading about magic and the fact that the book involves some profound lessons too, is just great. Thank you for the insightful review!

[Joseph_ngaruiya]

You left us eager to find the depth of Paco's responsibility. Now that means I will have to read the book to find out.

[AvidBibliophile]

Little Paco, profound lessons, fabled rings, oceanic themes, AND dolphins?! This one sounds like a genuine gem. Thank you for your insightful analysis and recommendations!

[Priyanka2304]

The title of the book felt strange to me at first. Don't know how children would be able to relate to it. Thanks for the wonderful review.

[Sunchris01]

I love how the author posses the question. I will have to read the book to know how paco takes the responsibility

[Valkyrie9]

What a stunning setting for a children's story! I'm sure young and old would enjoy this, and it makes it extra special that the reader can watch the main character develop over the course of the book. Thanks for a well-written review.

[Damis Seres Rodriguez]

As a Mexican, I am quite intrigued by the descriptions this book might provide. Looks like a lovely read. Great review!

[Kanda_theGreat]

I admire your choice of words, especially in your analysis of the setting.
Great review!

[Mathew dibz]

I loved the story its a good tale.Honestly this is the first book I've read that talks about a young boy from mexico.

[Teele]

This short story was a beautiful tale of adventure with simple but profound lessons.

My kind of book. Thanks for a good review.

[Zainabreadsnow]

This sounds like a magical story. Can't wait to read it. Thank you for the incredible review!

[Menace Crypto]

When I first saw this book's cover, I didn't think much of it, but now that I've read this review, I'm intrigued.