Laura: Djevojčica s Anda

The children's and young adult novel Laura, the Girl from the Andes by Johanna Schepping (originally published in 1986) is a touching, adventurous literary work that transports readers to the mysterious and magnificent landscapes of South America. The central character is Laura, a young girl living in the exotic yet harsh mountain environment of the Andes, where she faces daily challenges posed by nature and life within a humble community. Through a warm and vivid narrative, the author portrays Laura’s inner world—her curiosity, courage, and deep connection to nature and animals. Through a series of exciting experiences and trials, Laura learns the importance of family values, solidarity, loyalty, and mutual support. The novel derives special value from its authentic depiction of the traditions, culture, and way of life of the local people living at the foot of the Andean peaks. Laura, the Girl from the Andes remains a beautiful, instructive coming-of-age story that sparks the imagination, fosters empathy, and introduces young readers to distant worlds and different cultures, emphasizing that a child's purity of heart, joy, and desire for freedom are universal across the globe.