For local educator and author Muriel Thibodeaux, Ed.D., learning a new language is about more than memorizing words and grammar rules. It is about connection, curiosity, and the confidence to step into the unfamiliar.
Thibodeaux, a Walker High School graduate and Livingston Parish resident, has published Clara Viaja por Sudamérica: ¿Quién es el chico?, the first book in her new Clara Viaja™ educational series. The interactive Spanish reader and workbook was released on July 4, 2026, a date Thibodeaux intentionally chose to coincide with America’s 250th anniversary.
“As we celebrate 250 years of freedom, I wanted students to experience the freedom to communicate, explore, ask questions, and make mistakes without fear,” Thibodeaux said.
The book is the result of more than six years of writing, research, and collaboration. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience teaching world languages in Louisiana and Georgia, Thibodeaux designed the book to help beginning Spanish students build confidence through engaging stories, meaningful communication, and comprehensible input.
The adventure begins in New Orleans, where Clara discovers her cell phone is missing before traveling through nine South American countries. Along the way, students work to solve a mystery, make choices that influence the journey and explore authentic cultures while naturally acquiring Spanish.
Designed for Spanish I classrooms, homeschool families, tutors, and independent learners, Clara Viaja por Sudamérica combines storytelling, workbook activities, and cultural exploration into one interactive learning experience.
“My hope is that students don’t simply study Spanish, but experience it,” Thibodeaux said. “Every new language opens doors to new friendships, cultures, and opportunities.”
Thibodeaux said the timing of the book’s release is also meaningful as the FIFA World Cup brings people together through language, culture, and shared experiences.
“I hope this book inspires students to view foreign languages as gateways to new cultures, new perspectives, and meaningful connections around the world,” she said.
For Thibodeaux, the project reflects the moments that have shaped her career as an educator — especially the times when students realize they are capable of more than they thought.
“I love those ‘aha!’ moments when everything clicks,” she said. “Watching students light up with excitement is what makes being an educator so meaningful. Nothing compares to witnessing that spark when they realize what once seemed impossible is now possible.”
The project was also a collaborative effort. Thibodeaux worked with illustrator Aldana Penayo, who illustrates as Nanny Vainilla, from Argentina. Penayo’s artwork helped bring Clara’s journey through South America to life.
Clara Viaja por Sudamérica: ¿Quién es el chico? is available through Lulu.
