Daughter of the Light-Footed People: The Story of Indigenous Marathon Champion Lorena Ramírez
by Belen Medina (Author) Natalia Rojas Castro (Illustrator)
Meet Lorena Ramírez, an Indigenous Rarámuri athlete from Mexico who is internationally known for winning ultramarathons in her traditional skirts and rubber sandals, in this nonfiction picture book.
From the copper canyons of Mexico, her swift footsteps echo. Clip clap, clip clap.
Experience a sixty-mile run with Indigenous athlete Lorena Ramírez. She runs in the traditional clothes of the Rarámuri, “the light-footed people,” to show that her people and their way of life are alive and thriving—outpacing runners in modern, high-tech gear and capturing the world’s attention. Lorena’s career as an athlete is an inspiring real-life example of the power of perseverance that will encourage young readers to follow their own dreams.
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Kirkus
A vibrant homage to a celebrated athlete, her supportive community, and Indigenous resilience.
School Library Journal
Gr 1-4--This is a striking introduction to ultramarathon runner, Lorena Ramírez, who belongs to the Indigenous Rarámuri people of Mexico. The book follows Ramírez as she runs 60 miles, all while wearing the traditional shoes and clothing of her people. As she runs, readers gain insight into her rural upbringing and lifestyle, as well as the intense physical demands of the race. Peppered with figurative language, the spare text is lyrical, at times echoing the rhythm of Ramírez's steadfast footsteps. The digital illustrations are rich, evocative, and thoughtful in composition; the art beautifully blends present and past and gives readers a view of the race from a variety of perspectives--from her white rubber shoes to the clouds and birds soaring above her. Vibrant florals illuminate Ramírez's strength and persistence and add movement throughout the story. An author's note at the end expands on Ramírez's achievements, her community, and her pride in her heritage. Runners are depicted in a variety of skin tones. VERDICT An exceptional addition to all collections.--Lauren Strohecker
Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
JNF038070 - Juvenile Nonfiction | People & Places | Mexico
JNF007100 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Biography & Autobiography | Sports & Recreation
Mexico
Runners (Sports)
Women runners
Indigenous peoples
Marathon running
Ramirez, Lorena
