The Echoes of my Journey

Who I am ….

Brendaliz Cepeda, of Western Massachusetts is the granddaughter of Rafael Cepeda who is known for being the patriarch of Bomba in PR and outside PR. Brendaliz has a master's in special education which she taught for thirteen years. In 2013 she started a local group called Bomba de Caribe. Caribe means a type of music Bomba dance from PR. Years later she met her husband (Saul) and both decided to change the group Name to Bomba de Aquí. Both Brendaliz and Saul have been working hard with the community teaching youth and adults about folklore Música Bomba. In 2021 they both formed an afterschool program called Multicultural Learning Center. Which currently covers twenty schools with employees teaching schools about Puerto Rico culture through the arts. Brendaliz is now the owner of Brass City Bomba located in Waterbury CT. Brendaliz is also a motivational, cultural speaker at universities and schools all over New England. Her mission is to continue the work of her grandfather through teaching youth Puerto Rican Culture.

The Echoes of my Journey is a beautifully woven middle grade fantasy that blends magical realism, cultural heritage, and a coming-of-age journey.

Thirteen-year-old Paulina is spending another quiet summer in Massachusetts—until a mysterious tree in her backyard awakens an ancient magic and transports her to Borikén, the land of her Taíno ancestors. Immersed in the rhythms of village life, sacred rituals, and ancestral wisdom, Paulina discovers truths hidden in her family's past—and a destiny rooted deep in the soil of history.

As tensions rise between rival tribes and visions of colonial invaders loom, Paulina must find the strength to unify the community, preserve a disappearing culture, and return home with a story the world must not forget.

Perfect for readers who love:

Indigenous history and mythology
Empowering stories about cultural identity
Fantasy grounded in real-world heritage
Strong female leads with heart and courage
Genre Classification

Primary Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Sub-genres: Magical Realism, Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Latinx/Indigenous Fiction
Age Range: 10–14
Themes: Identity, ancestry, cultural preservation, indigenous resistance, family legacy

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Professional Development for Educators: Inspire Young Minds Through Storytelling

Bring fresh energy to your classroom with a professional development session centered around the power of children's literature. In this interactive session, educators will explore:

How to use children's books to spark meaningful conversations
Strategies for integrating literacy across subjects
Ways to foster empathy, creativity, and critical thinking through storytelling
Practical activities based on [Book Title] that align with curriculum standards

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I am honored to introduce my booker, who has played an essential role in bringing my vision to life and ensuring that my book reaches the hearts and hands it was meant for. With keen attention to detail, unwavering professionalism, and a deep understanding of my journey and message, they have guided this process every step of the way. Their commitment to excellence has made this release smooth and meaningful, allowing me to focus on sharing my story with the world.

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Thank you!

The Echoes of My Journey

bombadeaqui123@gmail.com
(413)4669711