Pacheco and the Witch of the Mountain: A Graphic Novel

Ages 9 to 11, Grades 4 to 7

Welcome to the island of Asunción, home to the most powerful witches—and Pacheco, their biggest fan. In this beautifully illustrated graphic novel, debut creator Juan E. Zambrano will take readers on an epic adventure that's all about magic, identity, and staying true to yourself.

Pacheco's biggest dream is to practice magic! There's just one problem: commoners, and especially boys, aren't allowed to learn witchcraft. 

However, once his family’s fishing business begins to suffer, Pacheco is determined; he's certain that learning magic is the best way to help his family and community. He meets Doris, a grumpy, old witch, and he decides to become her apprentice.

As Pacheco enters the world of magic, he finds himself caught up in the rules and schemes of a whole new society and surrounded by magical creatures in need of protection. Pacheco will have to dig deep to muster the courage—and magic—to defend his future.

Debut creator Juan E. Zambrano presents a breathtaking graphic novel that delves into the importance of staying true to oneself while courageously addressing challenging themes such as gender roles and environmental protection. Perfect for fans of Joe Latham's Haru, Emma Steinkellner's The Okay Witch, Claribel Ortega's Witchlings, and Hayao Miyazaki's films like Kiki's Delivery Service and Spirited Away.

About the Author

Juan E. Zambrano is an illustrator and cartoonist from Venezuela. He loves fun, heartfelt stories, and his work is usually focused on nature, magic, and staying true to yourself. In his free time, he likes watching birds and going out for a hike. Pacheco and the Witch of the Mountain is his debut graphic novel.