Child of the Flower-Song People by Gloria Amescua and Duncan Tonatiuh - ESSENTIAL

Child of the Flower-Song People: Luz Jimenez, Daughter of the Nahua by Gloria Amescua, illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh. PICTURE BOOK, BIOGRAPHY. Abrams Books for Young Readers (Abrams), 2021. $19. 9781419740206 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE, EL - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Luz Jiminez was an indigenous Nahua in the early 1900s in Mexico. She spoke her people's language, and knew their culture and their ways. She could grind corn on a metate, weave on a loom and even spin yard with her toes. But when her family was forced from their lands and had to resettle in Mexico City, Luz learned the Spanish at the city schools. However, always a champion of the Nahua, she worked to preserve their ways and culture, inspiring artists and scholars alike. 

Duncan Tonatiuh's illustrations highlight this beautiful story of perseverance and grit. What an amazing short biography, and a must read for classes studying Mexican history. Includes an author's note, a photograph(!) timeline, a glossary and bibliography.

Lisa Librarian