by Alejandro Cruz Martinez (Author) Fernando Olivera (Illustrator)
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This original Hispanic folktale is skillfully told, and is solidly and colorfully steeped with imagery of earth and sky. Both the Spanish and English read gracefully, and the poetic use of language suits the story well for telling. An excellent discussion starter, dealing as it does with issues of the differences between people and respect for nature, the book has a natural place in multicultural and environmental units. — School Library Journal
An excellent addition to any folklore collection; one of the handsomest yet of [Children's Book Press's] fine multicultural books. — Kirkus Reviews
The story is beautifully told in each language with little impetus, if any, being lost in the translation. — MultiCultural Review
Surreal illustrations, calling to mind a stylistic mixture of William Joyce and Karen Barbour, highlight the richness of the folktale convention and perfectly capture a sense of place. — Publisher's Weekly
Powerfully illustrated by Fernando Olivera, whose work is reminiscent of the early 20th century Mexican artist José Clemente Orozco, principle and integrity flow through this story like the river that Lucia literally wears in her lovely black hair. — San Francisco Chronicle
Luminous, dreamlike paintings perfectly complement the text. — Parenting Magazine
Approved Book
Award for Outstanding Children's Books
Alejandro Martinez was a promising young Zapotec poet who spent many years collecting the oral traditions of his people, including the story of Lucia Zeneno. He published his own version of the story as a poem in 1986. Alejandro was killed in 1987 while organizing the Zapotec to regain their lost water rights.
Fernando Olivera is an internationally acclaimed painter who lives in Oaxaca, Mexico. He was fascinated with the story of Lucia Zenteno ever since he first heard it from his close friend Alejandro Cruz Martinez. His work has been shown internationally, in places like Mexico, El Salvador, and the US. His work is influenced by traditional Oaxacan ways of life, myths and legends, and political and social concerns.