The Bakery

A family of wolf bakers leaves behind the coldness of the city—inhabited by solemn-faced wild fauna—to settle in a village where the neighbors are domestic animals. Although they are not well received there either, they persevere in their attempt to earn the community’s trust. A turning point arrives with a great storm that floods the streets and houses: the family unhesitatingly joins the mud-clearing efforts, an act of solidarity that succeeds in breaking down the prejudices surrounding them.
Told from a child’s perspective, the eldest son is the narrator of this moving story, which, in flashback form, describes the family’s struggles to get ahead.
David Lorenzo’s illustrations, created with meticulous graphite technique, amplify Lucía Belarte’s text with extraordinary visual power. The black-and-white images, rich in detail, stand out for their masterful treatment of light, a variety of shots with a cinematic feel, and subtle nods to the work of Keith Haring. At times, their expressiveness is such that words become unnecessary.
With a sensitive and contemporary approach, this work addresses themes such as integration, diversity, and overcoming rejection towards those who are different, promoting essential values like solidarity, resilience, and community building.

Key points

2025 – Outstanding Books in Children’s and Youth Literature from Spain, OEPLI’s Selection, IBBY Spain

• Created prior to the tragic DANA floods in the Valencian Community.
• Submitted to the 2024 XVII International Compostela Prize for Picture Books.
• Addresses themes of integration and prejudice faced by a family for being different.
• Highlights how solidarity during crises can break down distrust.
• Explores the search for belonging and meaningful work.
• Emphasizes values of roots, identity, and community.
• Promotes resilience, perseverance, and family bonds.
• Uses bread as a metaphor for craftsmanship, patience, and cultural heritage.