Manuel Novelo Returns with New Book: “A Belizean Story”

Ten years after his debut, The Sacred Maya: Smoke Shell, Belizean author Manuel Novelo is back with a captivating new release. Set in 1960s Orange Walk, A Belizean Story brings Novelo’s original characters into real historical events, weaving a tale that resonates with the Belizean public. The book will soon be available at bookshops across the country.

“This is my new book I would like to present to our Belizean public, our Belizean readers, hoping that not only children, but not only children going to school, but like everybody, adults, everybody will enjoy this book,” Novelo told News 5.

He added, “I always loved writing, creative writing… I’ve done that since I was a child.” He says that his passion for storytelling led him to write several works over the years, though A Belizean Story is his latest published piece.

The book follows three young boys—Patli, Kadal, and their friend—through adventures that intertwine with the history of the village of Palmar. Novelo reveals, “I relate the story or the real history of the village… and how they were forced out of their lands by the British Empire.”

This new book aims to captivate readers of all ages, from children to adults, offering a unique perspective on Belizean history.