At thirteen, Leonardo has always tried to be the best at everything he does, hoping to earn acceptance and admiration from those around him. Yet beneath his determination lies a deep insecurity. Adopted as a young child, Leo avoids talking about his past, which feels distant and filled with unanswered questions. When a school assignment requires him to create a family tree, he is forced to confront the fears he has spent years avoiding. What begins as a classroom project gradually becomes a journey of self-discovery, identity, and belonging.

Written by Sônia Barros, an experienced educator whose work often explores family relationships and emotional growth, Leo’s Courage approaches adoption with sensitivity and authenticity. Rather than focusing solely on the search for origins, the novel examines the meaning of family, showing that the strongest bonds are often built through love, care, and shared experiences rather than biological ties. Through Leo’s emotional journey, the story addresses prejudice, self-acceptance, and the courage required to face difficult questions about oneself.

Sandra Jávera’s illustrations enrich the narrative with a delicate visual language that complements the book’s emotional depth. Text and image work together to support Leo’s introspective journey, creating an engaging reading experience that resonates with young readers navigating questions of identity and belonging. Balancing tenderness, humor, and emotional honesty, Leo’s Courage offers a moving reflection on adoption, family, and the discovery that true courage often comes from understanding and accepting one’s own story.