Description
Book SynopsisThis edition is in Spanish.
In this delightful story two young children, Ray and Amelia, discover the old New Mexican tradition of "los abuelos" for the first time. Long ago, in the cold midwinter of northern New Mexico, village men would go up into the mountains, disguise themselves as scary old men and then go down to the village to see who had been good and who had been bad. The abuelos -- wearing masks and covered with soot -- would tease the children and then have them sing or dance around the fire.
This midwinter masquerade, which contains elements of Spanish and indigenous Pueblo culture, as well as sharing features common to solstice celebrations in other parts of the world, died out in New Mexico for a time, but has been occasionally revived in recent years.
Trade ReviewMora introduces the intriguing midwinter New Mexican festival of los abuelos in this playful tale...watercolor and pastel illustrations impart Amelia's apprehension as well as family togetherness. * Publishers Weekly *
An amusing cautionary tale, rich with Pueblo and Hispanic traditions and a feeling of strong community ties. * Library Media Connection *
[A] master storyteller. In her hands the framing story of Amelia's family and the retelling of the folktale blend seamlessly...This story will be welcomed in libraries across the southwest. Abuelos will be fun to add to traditional winter stories. * School Library Journal *
Vibrant illustrations celebrate the traditional elements of the story...Recommended for all Spanish-language collections. * Criticas Magazine *
Scary shivery fun...cultural details...framed by warm family images...[Abuelos is] a great choice for Halloween sharing. -- Hazel Rochman * Booklist *
Lovely watercolors contribute to the charm of this story about a wintertime tradition in northern New Mexico...Perfect for those who want a gently scary story embedded in a fascinating and little-know 'bogeyman' tradition from Hispanic New Mexico. The author's note provides additional information, and places the story in the context of universal cautionary tales. * Kirkus Reviews *
