Duncan Tonatiuh Books

"This pre-Columbian creation myth tells the story of Quetzalcoatl, one of the most important deities in ancient Mesoamerica, and his quest to create humankind. The gods tried to make humans during each sun, or age, but each time failed. So when they grew tired, only one did not give up: Quetzalcoatl, also called the Feathered Serpent. Determined, the Feathered Serpent embarks on a dangerous journey full of fearsome foes and harsh elements, facing each trial with wisdom, bravery, and resourcefulness before confronting his final challenge at Mictlan, the underworld. With his instantly recognizable, acclaimed art style and grand storytelling, Tonatiuh recounts a dazzling creation tale of epic proportions"--

Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Brazil, the narrative explores the history of capoeira, an art form blending martial arts, dance, and music, primarily practiced by those of African descent. Following its prohibition in 1890, Bimba emerges as a key figure advocating for the recognition and respect of capoeira. Through lyrical prose and vibrant illustrations, the book highlights the journey of capoeira from a marginalized activity to a globally celebrated art form, eventually recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

A meia lua whooshed in the air, evaded with an aú as two young men played capoeira in the roda. Bimba wanted to join. The origins of capoeira—a blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics, music, and spirituality—are debated, but by the early 20th century, it was uniquely Brazilian, primarily practiced by people of African descent. In 1890, shortly after Brazil abolished slavery, capoeira was outlawed, as the wealthy elite viewed it as a game for the "malandros," the marginalized Black communities they despised. However, in the early 1920s, Bimba emerged in Salvador, advocating for capoeira and its practitioners to be treated with dignity and respect. Duncan Tonatiuh’s lyrical prose and illustrations, inspired by pre-Columbian codices, tell the story of this remarkable capoeirista who transformed a misunderstood and persecuted Afro-Brazilian activity into a celebrated art form embraced by millions worldwide. In 2014, UNESCO recognized capoeira as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its role in promoting social integration and commemorating the struggle against historical oppression. This work is a stirring celebration of solidarity and resistance through art.

Explore a world of colors in this vibrant, bilingual picture book from award- winning author-illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh