The Fifth and Final Sun : An Ancient Aztec Myth of the Sun's Origin

An Aztec creation myth about the origins of the sun describes the evolution of the five suns and the epic struggle that ensued for control of the most powerful position in the universe, until the coming of the fifth sun, which we live with today.

Grade 1-4-According to this Aztec creation myth, humankind lives in the Age of the Fifth Sun. The first four suns were destroyed by jealous gods; the fifth was born by an act of unselfish sacrifice. Greger's retelling embroiders upon traditional details to create a unique version of this porquoi story about the origin of the sun and the moon. The tale is illustrated with fantastically detailed watercolors, most of which are single page; others are double-page spreads framed by a border of Aztec-style designs. Shapes are outlined with strong, flowing curves. The emotional content of each scene is accented by the use of color-the dying light of the Second Sun turns the sky a dim mustard yellow; bathed in the Fourth Sun's soft white rays, the green and gold fields glow with vitality. Greger's lively, imaginative mixture of pictures and text bring real sparkle to this story, which may be unfamiliar to many young listeners.
Mary Jo Drungil, Niles Public Library District, IL
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

An ancient Aztec creation myth, explaining the origin of the sun, retold and illustrated for a grade-school audience. Divided into five chapters that correspond to each of the suns, the book recounts how, in the beginning, there was no sun and the White Evening Star God shone all alone in the sky. She was replaced by the God of the Night, who was replaced by the God of the Wind. The saga continues until we reach the fifth and final sun, the one that still shines today. Greger's retelling of these stories is notable for directness and clarity. Her illustrations--vivid, intricate, and haunting--resemble the watercolors of William Blake and have something of their otherworldly preoccupation. Some are less understandable than others, but mostly, the pictures glow with a mystical light and do much (particularly the bold and dramatic two-pages spreads) to bring the text to life. An author's note explains the origin of the stories, providing useful context. All in all, an unusual book that should do much to illuminate the legends of an important ancient culture. (Folklore/Picture book. 7-10) -- Copyright ©1994, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.