FIESTA FEMENINA

Drawing on rich strands of Mexican culture, these smoothly told folktales celebrate women, ranging from mythical goddesses to the historical Malintzen (a.k.a. Malinche). Among the tales drawn from the cultures of pre-Spanish Mexico, are “Rosha and the Sun,” from the Maya; “The Hungry Goddess,” an Aztec tale; “The Legend of Tangu Yu,” from the Zapotec; and “Why the Moon Is Free,” a Yaqui tale. Others, many with complex and mysterious origins, include “The Green Bird” and “Blancaflor,” and the legends “The Virgin of Guadalupe,” and “Malintzen of the Mountain.” The bold, colorful illustrations include borders along the bottom of each story to reflect its theme and full-page pictures of the heroic women in central scenes from each tale. Detailed source notes include suggestions for additional reading. There’s also a glossary of Spanish words and phrases, a pronunciation guide to Mexican names and places, and a map of Mexico on the end papers. A celebration not only of the strength and complexity of Mexican women, but of the richness, vibrancy, and miraculous qualities of Mexican culture. (Folklore. 8+)