Beaver

A poetic tale of courage, justice, and the magic of storytelling. A beautifully illustrated journey into the heart of one of the greatest literary minds.

“One is not born, but rather becomes a woman.” These famous words by Simone de Beauvoir come to life in Beaver, a beautifully illustrated tale of courage, independence, and self-discovery. When Simone de Beauvoir was a little girl, she was nicknamed «Beaver», after the assonance with the animal. What is interesting is that Simone felt this nickname as part of her personality, due to her desire to change the course of the current and to build a political mindset which could transform the status quo. The book tells us about Simone’s childhood, when – «brave as a beaver» – she decides to challenge her mother’s (and society’s) rules for the first time, by asking for a bicycle. She didn’t get one, but that was just going to be the first of many times – first as a child, then as a woman – she refused to comply with society’s gender norms and block the river’s flow by building an alternative path. Just like beavers do.

Through the eyes of a determined young girl, the story explores a unique bond between a longed-for bicycle, a forgotten piano, and the hidden wisdom of the forest. As she pushes against the expectations placed upon her, she learns what it means to be brave—just like a beaver, who dares to change the course of a river to build the home of its dreams.

With poetic narration by Serena Ballista and evocative illustrations by Martina Paderni, this book introduces young readers to the powerful ideas of Simone de Beauvoir, inspiring them to challenge limitations and carve their own paths. Perfect for children, parents, and educators, Beaver, come Castoro is a timeless story about daring to be yourself.