The Magical Necklace

About the Book

The Magical Necklace is a short story that shares a message about a brave little girl named Alanah who encourages her younger cousin Di’Milo to believe in himself. Alanah and Di’Milo go on an adventure walk that challenges Di’Milo and forces him to face his fears. Along the way, he demonstrates acts of bravery that help him become more confident. You’ll decide as the reader whether Di’Milo believes more in the magical necklace than he believes in himself. Readers are encouraged to connect with the characters Alanah and Di’Milo by responding to eight prompts at the end of the story. Included is an A–Z word list from the story to help inspire young readers to improve their literacy skills.

About the Author

Tina Figueroa has a PhD in Special Education Leadership. She lives in Baltimore, Maryland, and has been in education for more than twenty-five years. She has spent her career dedicated to children and adults with special needs as a special education teacher, school principal, and special education coordinator in Arkansas, Tennessee, New Jersey, and Maryland. While in Memphis, Tennessee, she founded the Diligent Individuals with Vivid Aspirations (DIVA) program, which targeted at-risk teen girls by supporting their academic, social, and emotional needs. She published an article in the Rural Special Education Quarterly Journal in summer of 2003—“I’m Back! Developing a Transition Plan for Students with Disabilities Who Return to Rural School Districts from Mental Health Treatment Facilities.” Her favorite lucky charm was a four-leaf clover as a little girl—until she started believing in herself and God.