Synopses & Reviews
Famous tales refashioned in Latin American settingsEleven classic tales are retold with an injection of Latino culture, providing a twist on the traditional forms while sustaining a freshness all their own. The title story, "Red Ridin' in the Hood," moves the setting to the barrio, where Red decides to brave dangerous Forest Street in order to reach her abuelita and encounters the menacing wolf in a thumping Chevy lowrider. Some stories are set in the Mexican countryside; in "Belleza y La Bestia," the beautiful heroine is a defender of the Revolution and teaches the beast about the righteousness of the freedom fighters. "El Día de los Muertos," a retelling of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, takes place in the time of the Aztecs and casts Orpheus as the feather-maker Nochehuatl.
These and the other cuentos in this book are further brought to life by abundant illustrations, by turns comical and poignant.
Review
"The fractured fairy tale gets cool Latino flavor in this lively collection of eleven fresh retellings. The lively, fast-paced tellings, the Spanish idiom (there's a glossary at the back) and the dynamic, full-page pictures, several per story, make this great for storytelling collections." -- Starred,
Booklist "Eleven tales distinguished by unusually rich humanity and details. This is a delightful debut." --
The Horn Book"Marcantonio's first collection exhibits a strong grasp on narrative and deft...characterizations." --
Kirkus Reviews"Readers will laugh out loud at the witty descriptions that pepper these cleverly reworked stories. Numerous elaborate illustrations ornament the collection, their energetic, fluid lines, and heavy shading emphasizing personality and movement. This short, sparkling book will find a ready fan base." -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books"Alarcao's textured half-tone illustrations play up the drama of each tale." -- Publishers Weekly
"The author uses unique styles, settings, and perspectives for each tale, fitting each to the mood. The illustrations integrate seamlessly. Recommended." -- VOYA
About the Author
Patricia Santos Marcantonio lives in Twin Falls, Idaho. This is her first book.
Renato Alarcao has illustrated many books published in Brazil. He lives in Rio de Janeiro.