Cooca Kids Collective Quarterly Newsletter – Summer 2025

 

In Defense of Literacy

A health literacy colleague recently posted about the difference between literacy and health literacy. And while I appreciate the post (my practice includes both), I believe it reduced the perceived importance of literacy in how the two are connected.

Now don’t get me wrong, I wholeheartedly understand the need to distinguish between literacy and health literacy. However, that post’s perspective on literacy prompted me to reflect on some differences and realities that, in my view, deserve closer examination and a more modern application—insights I believe are worth sharing. So, here goes.

Literacy today is no longer seen as a one-dimensional ability to read and write. Rather, it can be defined as a foundational understanding across multiple domains. More, it is the ability to understand, create, and use information across contexts to make informed decisions, solve problems, and participate fully in society. It includes numeracy and digital skills, evolves throughout life, and is a fundamental human right that drives social and economic progress, (UNESCO, 2004).

Using “literacy” in this broader sense only begins to acknowledge the complexity and depth of the term that can be decoded to represents a skill set (ability to read, write, communicate), a process (developed through continuous practice), a social practice (shaped by contexts), a construct (measurable for research), and a means for empowerment and participation (purpose of literacy).

In the realm of health literacy, which is a more specific subset, we typically recognize four domains: 1.) fundamental literacy, 2.) civic literacy, 3.) scientific literacy, and 4.) cultural literacy, (Rudd et al., 2005). The fact that health literacy is constructed upon these pillars demonstrates both the complexity of the field and the robust, multidimensional nature of literacy itself as multiple literacies are foundation for territories as broad as civics, science, and culture.

In short, while I support the point that health literacy’s purview focuses and reaches beyond early readers’ reading levels, the reason for this is to ensure that high-level concepts are grounded in accessible, foundational understanding for the masses. Accessibility should not be bypassed or overlooked for the sake of appearing complex when the elegance of clear, straightforward approaches often proves more efficient and impactful. Consider in this regard the symbiotic relationship of plain language and health literacy practice.

More importantly, those whose lives touch and intersect health literacy spaces are of all ages and reading levels. It is also worth noting that literacy exists along a continuum, on which individuals may possess varying levels of literacy about the same subject, from low to high. This further bolsters the notion that literacy is not a basic or primitive notion, but rather that it is layered and dynamic.

Finally, literacy is inextricable from education, which is why in the USA, together and apart from health literacy, they are identified as social determinants of health. Therefore, to downplay the importance of literacy undermines the shared goal we all have: Advancing health, literacy, and health literacy for All.

–Valerie L. Williams-Sanchez, PhD

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References:

• International Literacy Association. (n.d.). Children's Rights to Read. literacyworldwide.org.
• Rudd, R. E., Moeykens, B. A., & Colton, T. C. (1999). Health and literacy: A review of medical and public health literature. In J. Comings, B. Garner, & C. Smith (Eds.), Annual review of adult learning and literacy: Vol. 1 (pp. 158–199). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
• UNESCO. (2004). The plurality of literacy and its implications for policies and programmes. UNESCO Education Sector Position Paper. Paris, France: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (n.d.). Language and literacy [Literature summary]. Healthy People 2030. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/priority-areas/social-determinants-health/literature-summaries/language-and-literacy
• World Literacy Summit. (2025, April). Proceedings of the 2025 World Literacy Summit and the Oxford Declaration. Oxford, United Kingdom: World Literacy Summit.

Valorena Publishing & Cocoa Kids Collection® Virtual Scholarship Reception

The Valorena Publishing & Cocoa Kids Collection® Virtual Scholarship Reception is a dynamic online gathering that celebrates children's literature, literacy, and diversity in publishing. Hosted by Valorena Publishing, this event spotlights key voices in children's literature while raising funds for the Cocoa Kids Collection Scholarship, which supports aspiring young authors and creatives.

Event Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 6 – 7 PM EST
Location: Virtual (Registration Required)
Tickets: $10 (Register via QR code or bit.ly/4gSAMOG)

Attendees will enjoy engaging discussions with featured author Rachel DiNunzio, known for Forsythia: Rise of the Cupcakes, and featured illustrator Maya Henderson, recognized for Neecy and Nay Nay Series. In addition to these special guests, the event will introduce scholarship finalists, highlighting their creative and academic achievements.

The evening will also feature an exclusive raffle giveaway, with an incredible selection of gifts donated by more than a dozen sponsors, including Black-owned and BIPOC/women-led businesses. These contributions range from luxury chocolate and gourmet foods to multicultural children’s books, bookstore gift certificates, organic beauty products, and even an exclusive interview on a children's literature podcast—a golden opportunity for an aspiring author!

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

• Piety and Desire Chocolate
• Ashbell’s Premium Meats & Seafood
• The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast
• Read Your World
• Reid Wisely Books & Brew
• Big Red Books
• June Dragonfly Curated Gifts
• Penrose Press
• Gilly’s Organics
  …and more!

This event is a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community support, offering an enriching experience for literature lovers, educators, and book industry professionals alike.

For media inquiries or to request an interview with the event organizers, special guests, or scholarship finalists, please contact:

Dr. Valerie L. Williams-Sanchez

Valorena Online, L.L.C. & Valorena Publishing

ph: 714.654.6453

em: Valerie@ValorenaOnline.com

website:www.VWilliamsSanchez.org

 

 

Book Review: Un Tropezón de Tres Años (A Three-Year Stumble)

Reviewed for Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2025.

A Tale of Courage, Hope, and Math.

This enchanting tale follows the story of a grandfather who must cross a hill with a dark reputation. Known as "The Hill of Espanto" (The Hill of Dread), it is said that anyone who falls down its slopes is doomed to live only three more years. Despite the danger, the grandfather has no choice but to make the trek to reach the market.

One fateful day, the grandfather suffers the dreaded fall. As the years pass, the curse seems to take hold: after three years of health, he grows ill and weak. Even the reassurance of the best doctor in the land cannot shake the growing fear that the superstition is coming true.

But the story takes an unexpected turn when the grandfather’s granddaughter visits and hears the tale of the hill's curse. The girl, clever and curious, proposes a bold hypothesis: if one fall guarantees three years of life, wouldn’t more falls mean even more years? With nothing left to lose, they decide to test the theory. Together, they climb the hill, and the grandfather intentionally falls not once but multiple times.

To their amazement, the years pass without the curse taking effect. The hill, once feared, becomes a source of hope and joy as the grandfather embraces his newfound zest for life, rolling and tumbling with laughter. The dreaded Hill of Espanto is transformed into a mountain of hope.

Why This Book Shines
This delightful story is a testament to creativity, resilience, and the transformative power of perspective. Its simple, engaging language and vivid imagery captivate readers of all ages. The granddaughter’s clever solution highlights the importance of curiosity and critical thinking, while the use of math in the story is both educational and endearing.

Perfect for incorporating into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) or SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) curricula, the story emphasizes the role of perspective taking -- and shifting, imagination, and courage in overcoming challenges. Its timeless message and unqiue approach of turning fear into hope makes it a must-read for classrooms and families alike.

Conclusion
Un tropezón de tres años (A Three-Year Stumble) is a charming tale that entertains while inspiring readers to embrace creativity, question assumptions, and find hope in face of adversity. With truly multicultural, gender and generational diversity woven into the fabric of this sweet tale, it is a heartwarming story that will resonate with readers of all ages.

The End

*This picture book parable is by Korean-German artist Dayeon Auh and is based on the traditional Korean folktale “Samnyeongogae” (Three-Year Mountain Pass).

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Reseña de Libro: Un Tropezón de Tres Años
Para el Día del Libro Infantil Multicultural 2025
Una Historia de Valentía, Esperanza y Matemáticas

Esta linda historia nos cuenta la aventura de un abuelo que tiene que cruzar una colina con fama de ser peligrosa. La llaman "La Colina del Espanto" porque, según dicen, quien se caiga por sus laderas solo vivirá tres años más. A pesar de la mala reputación de la colina, el abuelo no tiene otra opción, ya que necesita llegar al mercado.

Un día, ocurre lo inevitable: el abuelo sufre la temida caída. Los años pasan y, para su sorpresa, la maldición parece cumplirse. Después de tres años de buena salud, empieza a enfermar y a sentirse débil. Ni siquiera el mejor médico del pueblo logra calmar sus miedos de que la leyenda esté volviéndose realidad.

Pero la historia toma un giro inesperado con la visita de su nieta. Al escuchar la historia de la colina, la niña, curiosa e ingeniosa, propone una idea loca pero brillante: si una caída asegura tres años de vida, ¿no podrían más caídas significar más años? Sin nada que perder, deciden probar la teoría. Suben juntos a la colina y, con toda la intención, el abuelo se deja caer no una, sino varias veces.

Para sorpresa de ambos, los años pasan y la maldición no se cumple. La colina, que antes era temida, se convierte en un símbolo de esperanza y alegría. El abuelo redescubre el amor por la vida, rodando y riendo con cada nueva caída. Lo que antes fue "La Colina del Espanto" se convierte en una "Montaña de Esperanza".

Por Qué Este Libro Es Tan Especial
Esta historia nos muestra el poder de la imaginación, la valentía y el cambio de perspectiva. Con un lenguaje sencillo y divertido, y unas ilustraciones llenas de color, atrapa a lectores de todas las edades. La solución ingeniosa de la nieta nos recuerda la importancia de ser curiosos, cuestionar lo que nos dicen y no rendirnos ante los miedos. Además, la forma en que se integra el uso de las matemáticas en la historia la hace educativa y muy tierna a la vez.

Este libro es perfecto para usar en actividades de STEM (Ciencia, Tecnología, Ingeniería y Matemáticas) o SEL (Aprendizaje Socioemocional). Su mensaje enseña a los niños a ver los problemas desde otra perspectiva y a enfrentar los desafíos con creatividad y valor. Su enfoque único para transformar el miedo en esperanza lo convierte en una historia ideal para disfrutar en familia o en el aula.

Conclusión
Un tropezón de tres años es una historia llena de humor, ternura e inspiración. Invita a los lectores a usar su creatividad, a cuestionar las creencias que limitan y a encontrar la esperanza en los momentos difíciles. La diversidad cultural, de género y de generaciones se refleja de forma natural en la historia, haciendo que esta sea una lectura cercana y significativa para todo tipo de público.

Fin

Este cuento ilustrado fue creado por la artista coreano-alemana Dayeon Auh y está basado en la historia tradicional coreana "Samnyeongogae" (El Paso de la Montaña de Tres Años).