Fact Checking Juli the Jaguar

Juli goes on some pretty wild adventures when she’s trying to get home… but how much of it is really real?

Is La Barra a real place?

Yes! It’s a beach town in Uruguay, full of surfers, artists, cool bridges, and epic sunsets. And yes—it has a wavy bridge that actually goes up and down like a rollercoaster. Try crossing it with your hands in the air!

Are there still jaguars in Uruguay?

Not in the wild anymore. Jaguars used to live in Uruguay, but now they mostly live in Brazil and other parts of South America. So in this story, Juli is a new arrival, just like some real jaguars were long ago.

What is Portal Bosque?

It’s a learning center for families in the forest where kids can climb, zipline, build forts, and connect with nature. The classrooms are round, the trees are tall, and the adventures are unlimited.

What is MACA?

It stands for Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Atchugarry. It’s a magical art museum surrounded by giant outdoor sculptures. Perfect for animal-sized and human-sized posing, frolicking, and pretending to be art.

What’s “jugo de perro” & “jugo de pera”?

  • Jugo de pera = pear juice (yum)

  • Jugo de perro = dog juice (NOOOPE 😱)

  • Say it clearly… or just ask for a lemonade!

Is surfing popular in La Barra?

Totally. Almost everyone in La Barra love the waves! And Juli’s not the only one learning to surf on Playa Los Cangrejos—you might catch a real kid doing the same!

Can jaguars and capybaras actually surf?

Technically, no. But in this book? They’re pro-level.

Are there flamingoes in La Barra?

Yes! If you’re lucky, you might spot real flamingoes in the arroyo near the Wavy Bridge. They don’t usually wear sunglasses like Fernando… but maybe they should.

What about Parakeets?

Tons of them! The loud green birds you’ll hear in palm trees are monk parakeets, and they’re full of personality. Pedro is based on a real chatterbox.

What is El Jagüel Park?

El Jaguel is massive playground just outside La Barra, with swings, hammocks, and slides big enough for flamingoes and capybaras (okay, sort of). It’s even got its own fire truck and helicopter! It’s the perfect place for a wild animal recess.

What’s an asado?

It’s a Uruguayan BBQ with sizzling meat, laughter, and family. Lots of families will gather weekly for an asado. It’s a place to gather, share delicious food, and enjoy each other. Juli’s backyard asado is just like the real thing—minus the jungle animals.

Are there sea monsters in La Barra pools?

Only if a capybara belly-flops into one and pretends to be a sea monster. (Spoiler: it happens a lot.)

 

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