Vida

From Sibert Award- and Pura Belpré Medal-winning creator Duncan Tonatiuh comes a highly original fable inspired by Mexican folk art
The city of Mousetepec is a lively place filled with color, music, and alegría (joy). But everything changes one night when the shadow of un gato appears, growing larger and larger until it looms over the whole city. Fiestas are cancelled and the mercado empties as the cat terrorizes the townsfolk.
To save their town, two little mouse siblings-Vida and her brother, Máximo-make a brave plan to scare away the cat after a bright, fantastical creature called an alebrije appears to them in a dream.
Acclaimed author-illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh presents this imaginative fable that will encourage young readers to confront any "shadows" they may face in their lives with a spirit of courage and alegría.
Includes a note on alebrijes, the inspiration behind this fable, glossary, pronunciation guide, and bibliography
Also available: Vida: Los ratones, el gato y el alebrije (Spanish Edition)

Duncan Tonatiuh (toh-nah-tee-YOU) is an award-winning author-illustrator. He is both Mexican and American. He grew up in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, and graduated from Parsons School of Design and Eugene Lang College in New York City. His artwork is inspired by pre-Columbian art. His aim is to create images and stories that honor the past but are relevant to today's people, especially children. His books include A Land of Books, Feathered Serpent and the Five Suns, and Separate Is Never Equal. He currently lives in San Miguel with his family but travels in the United States often.