A boy's encounter with an alien sparks an extraordinary dialogue about their different ways of life. The alien seeks to speak with a leader but struggles to grasp a society where no single person holds absolute power. To help him understand, the boy introduces him to the workings of democracy, illustrating its core principles through key moments that define it.
This story not only presents a brief history of democracy but also brings the concept to life, making it tangible and real for the reader.

One of the most exciting challenges in this book was bringing to life a variety of vivid and contrasting settings. From the depths of the forest to the energy of election day, from a crowd of passionate demonstrators to a conversation between representatives and citizens. I also had the chance to imagine an alien world ruled by a dictator and even take a journey back to prehistory, where the roots of democracy first emerged. It was an incredible experience to visually explore these moments and make them come alive for the reader.

2024
Leva-me ao teu Líder

Published by
Assembleia da República

Text by
Afonso Cruz

Coleção Missão: Democracia

City
Lisbon


Translation

Brazilian Portuguese 
Leva-me ao teu Líder
(2025, Boitatá)

Latin America Spanish
Llévame con tu líder
(2025,  Ediciones Iamiqué)


Awards 
2024 Special Mention
National Illustration Award Portugal DGLAB. 



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© Mariana Rio 2010-2025