The History of the Portuguese Elderly that came to life in a Children's Book
He could have been just another elderly man sitting peacefully on a stool by the sea, however, he became a precious source of inspiration for a children's book that narrates the history and cultural richness of the Algarve, in Portugal.
Hello darlings! I'm Geisa Borges, a native of São Paulo who has lived outside Brazil for 10 years (3 in Ireland and 7 in Portugal), a writer passionate about stories and origins and creator of the project A Costurar Histórias.
In a fishing village, in the south of Portugal, called Fuseta, I met a friendly gentleman, Tita (in memory), who on late summer afternoons in 2021 I would meet with his long-brimmed black hat, sitting on a bench by the sea. At each meeting, he told me another exciting chapter of his life story and from there, little by little the history of that place, of Portuguese culture and so many other riches, was revealed to me. I discovered that he was a fisherman, survived shipwrecks, served in the Portuguese army in Angola, and that the small village of Fuseta had sent thousands of men to fish cod in Greenland, including his father and other ancestors, among many other fascinating stories. In a touching gesture, Tita presented my son with a beautiful handmade boat, and said to me: "Friend, I don't want anything in return, just for you to talk to me."
Moved by this speech and social observation, I wrote a children's story inspired by his story so that younger generations understand the strength and cultural riches present in the stories of our elders.
"O Presente de Tita" is the first book in the A Costurar Histórias Project. There are 42 pages beautifully illustrated by Portuguese artist Marília Silva. It is full of cultural treasures from Portugal, especially the Algarve. There are songs from the Portuguese tradition, regional expressions, and, at the end, a glossary to further enrich your cultural background. You will embark on a journey through the Portuguese Algarve without having to leave home. But, if you want to come in person, I will be happy to welcome you and even take you on an unforgettable tour of Fuseta!
By supporting "O Presente de Tita", you are not just contributing to the publication of a book; you are becoming a guardian of an intangible heritage. Your support will also ensure the continuity of this Project, ensuring that more stories and traditions remain alive, inspiring and enriching the lives of future generations.
Join this movement to keep the flame of the A Costurar Histórias Project burning. Support "O Presente de Tita" today and be part of this beautiful tribute that transcends time and borders, connecting generations and celebrating the richness of our shared history. Tita's legacy is now in your hands - together, we can ensure it shines eternally.
Next steps :
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You will be able to contribute to the publication of the first book of the project until April 30th, but please guarantee your participation beforehand so that I don't die of a heart attack. Your book will be delivered by post by December (2024).
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20 copies will be donated to Mr. Tita's family, nursing homes, daycare centers, libraries and schools in the Fuseta region.
Any help is welcome!
If you cannot support financially, share this initiative in your WhatsApp groups, tell me how you would like to be part of this movement or leave me a message of support. Every stitch counts in this quilt uniting generations, memories and culture.
Thank you very much :)
