by Elia Esparza
If ever there was a perfect way to entertain families during these complicated times — a pandemic and quarantine, it would be Andrew Avner’s book, Toro presented by Primary Productions and published by Black Rose Writing. Toro, a middle grade fiction novel, is the first in a projected three-book series. Toro is also available as an unabridged audiobook.
Toro is a noble and brave tale that captures our hearts — young and old and captivates us from start to finish. Readers are transported to Pamplona, Spain where it introduces its heroine, the indomitable, Alicia Catalina Cortes, a young and rebellious Spanish cow.
Yes, a cow named Alicia who has set her sights on running with the bulls. Her only dilemma? She’s a cow and only bulls are allowed to participate in Pamplona’s most sacred and coveted annual fiesta of San Fermin.
Alicia is a fast and fiery cow who isn’t about to be detoured by sexist and outdated rules saying she can’t run with the bulls because she’s a cow. She is determined to defy every tradition in order to fulfill her dream and follow her ferocious cow-beating heart.
Toro brings to life Pamplona, Spain’s colorful and exciting backdrop during the time of its famous running of the bulls. Usually, between six to ten or more bulls are let loose on a course of the town’s sectioned-off subset of the town’s streets. Spanish tradition of its annual bull-running began in northeastern Spain in the early 14th century. While transporting cattle in order to sell them at the market, men would try to speed the process by hurrying their cattle using tactics of fear and excitement.
A true gem of a book with an unforgettable story, Toro is a book for all. A tale about overcoming obstacles and going for your dreams. It is about friendships, family culture, humor, loyalty and empowerment. An uplifting read perfect to rise above the tumultuous 2020 year we’ve experienced.
According to Kirkus Review, Toro is a “charming and engaging fantasy with characters readers will love and a strong positive message. And, it is a story that evokes beloved films such as Babe and Ratatouille.”
Avner’s Toro is one of the best novel of 2020 aimed at capturing the “tween” readers and beyond; a sure bet development into an animated film. He is currently writing and producing short films for The Walt Disney Company, while penning his next novel. A gifted filmmaker and writer, Avner is an honors’ graduate from New York University’s Tisch School of Arts, who once worked with Academy Award-winning producer David Brown.
An unforgettable tale, Toro is a heartfelt, coming-of-age fable told from the cattle’s point of view. If you’re into anthropomorphic talking animals driving the narrative ala Charlotte’s Web, The Jungle Book, and Fantastic Mr. Fox, well you’re going to love Toro.
Toro is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook in the review.