ATARIBA AND NIGUAYONA: A Story from the Taino People of Puerto Rico

by Harriet & Jesus Guerrero Rea--Adapt. Rohmer ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 1, 1988

A traditional tale of the quest for a miraculous cure (here, the fruit of the caimoni tree) for a beloved friend who is dying. The boy Niguayona, counseled by a macaw, is successful in saving Atariba because, as Rohmer says in her concluding notes, ""he has been attentive to the voices of the natural forces around him."" A gentle story from before the time of the Spanish conquerors, concluding with the two growing up to be ""strong and compassionate leaders"" of their people. The vigorous, vividly hued illustrations--faces covered with paint in ceremonial designs--reflect the primitive Taino culture. A good addition to folklore collections.

Pub Date: June 1, 1988

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 24

Publisher: Children's Book Press

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 1988

Categories: CHILDREN'S