Description: What if a simple school assignment led to a world you never expected-and a dog who could change your life?Nina and Ti Punch, A French Caribbean Tale is a charming middle school fantasy novel that blends everyday challenges with magical adventures. Nina wants one thing more than anything else: a dog. But her hardworking mother keeps saying no, and Nina can't understand why. When a geography project requires her to randomly choose a country, Nina lands on Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean island she knows nothing about.
Through a school pen-pal program, Nina begins writing to Séverine, who lives in Guadeloupe and has a devoted dog named Ti Punch. As Nina learns about island life, culture, language, and history, her curiosity grows, and so does her wish for a dog of her own. Soon, Nina's imagination takes her further than she ever thought possible. In vivid, unforgettable dreams, she travels to Guadeloupe with Ti Punch, exploring beaches, waterfalls, and traditions that bring the island to life. Back home, Nina faces real-world lessons about responsibility, patience, and growing up. As she helps care for a neighbor's dog, manages schoolwork, and navigates friendships, she begins to understand what it truly means to earn trust and take responsibility for another living being. Perfect for readers ages 8-12, Nina and Ti Punch is a middle grade book about adventures, friendship, and self-discovery. With gentle fantasy elements grounded in real emotions, this story encourages curiosity, empathy, and confidence while introducing young readers to another culture in an accessible, engaging way.