Explore the learning center

Free resources for educators, families, and adventurers.
Bring the world of Old San Juan into your classroom, your home, or explore it in person.

For Educators

Classroom-Ready Resources

Everything you need to bring The Cats of Old San Juan into your curriculum, from discussion questions to Reader's Theater scripts.

Educator's Guide

22-page PDF with thematic discussion questions, chapter-by-chapter comprehension checks, vocabulary lists, and Common Core-aligned activities across ELA, social studies, science, and art. Spanish version will be coming once the translation is finished.

Reader's Theater

Three ready-to-print scripts from the novel at different difficulty levels. There is a full lesson plan and post-performance discussion prompts. This is part of the main educator’s guide.

Virtual Author Visits

Free 30-minute virtual sessions for grades 4–8. MJ discusses writing, illustrating, and Puerto Rico history. She will walk students through her writing and art process.

Interactive Adventure

The Cats of Old San Juan Adventure

Walk the streets your favorite characters walked. Mini-quests at real locations across Old San Juan and Puerto Rico bring the story to life.

Real World Quests

Visit El Morro, La Perla, and other locations from the book to unlock challenges and hidden story content.

Story & History

Each quest blends fiction with real Puerto Rican history! Learn about the fortress, the cats, and the island.

Play From Anywhere

Visiting PR? Unlock location-based quests. Reading at home? Play the story-based challenges remotely.

For Readers & Families

Keep the Adventure Going

Activities, book club guides, and fun facts to explore the world of the story beyond the last page.

Free Educator's Guide

Educator's Guide 22-page PDF with thematic discussion questions, chapter-by-chapter comprehension checks, vocabulary lists, and more!