My Daughter, My Son, the Eagle, the Dove: An Aztec Chant

New York. 2000. Dutton. 1st American Edition. Very Good in Dustjacket. 0525458565. Illustrated by S. Guevara. unpaginated. hardcover. Cover: S. Guevara. keywords: American Literature Latinx Women. DESCRIPTION - In the ancient land now known as Mexico, chants were recited as a rite of passage by a parent or wise elder. Now renowned Chicana poet and author Ana Castillo, inspired by these Nahuatl talks, has crafted her own version of this time-honored tribute to a child on his or her way to adulthood. In words and pictures, the book's two sections - one for a daughter, one for a son - mark the milestones of growing up and reflect the parental joy, responsibility, and pride in the process. Like an illuminated manuscript in a new-world context, the illustrations by S. Guevara stylistically combine Aztec elements with strong contemporary images on bark in a rich, gorgeous design that matches the powerful and resonant text. This superb gift book is ideal for commemorating any of the various momentous events in a young person's life. Though steeped in the wisdom of the ancients, the message is startlingly relevant and universal, delivered with a radiar1ce that makes it a book everyone will want to give or receive. Ana Castillo is the acclaimed author of several novels for adults, including SO FAR FROM GOD, THE MIXQUIAHUALA LETTERS, SAPOGONIA, and PEEL MY LOVE LIKE AN ONION, as well as the story collection LOVERBOYS, the critical study MASSACRE OF TILE DREAMERS, and the poetry collection MY FATHER WAS A TOLTEC. She has won a Carl Sandburg Prize, a Southwestern Booksellers Award, and an American Book Award. Ms. Castillo lives in Chicago, with her son, Marcel Ramon. S. Guevara has illustrated several books for children, including CHATO'S KITCHEN (C. P. Putnam's Sons), which was an ALA Notable Book and won the first annual Tomas Rivera Mexican American Children's Book Award and the Pura BelprE Award for Illustration, both honoring Latino artists. She lives in California. inventory #27878.…