The Amazing Students of Venezuela (Against All Odds)

Marcelo and Julio show determination and strength every day as they cross the border from Venezuela to Colombia to attend a better school in this empowering picture book.

Marcelo and her cousin Julia live in Venezuela, but every day they get up at dawn to make the arduous journey to cross the border to their school in Colombia. Some days are harder than others and some days they can't even make it home. But for the amazing students of Venezuela, it is worth it since they know that the more they are able to learn, the more opportunities they will have.

The stories told in the Against All Odds picture book series are true stories of brave boys and girls from different parts of the world who, with their small everyday actions, beat the odds and achieve something great. The series is intended to promote diversity and acceptance by exposing children to kids' stories from faraway places facing unique situations or overcoming prejudice.

Claudia Bellante is a freelance photo and print journalist based in Milan. Her work focuses on the exploration of social changes that begin from the stories of ordinary people. Her work has been featured in publications across the world.