Ancient Night
A tale that offers “a twist on several traditional stories of Mesoamerica” shines a light on the mysteries behind the creation of the moon and sun. Diligent Rabbit collects luminous aguamiel from “the first and holy maguey” to refill the moon (depicted as a large, rounded jug) as needed. Observing the waxing and waning light of the moon, Opossum follows Rabbit to learn her ways. Envious that Rabbit gets the aguamiel all to herself, Opossum uses his walking stick to crack the moon, releasing a stream of nectar. Aghast at the sudden darkness, Rabbit upbraids Opossum. Ashamed, Opossum journeys belowground in search of a “treasure” that might rectify his actions: a “fire prepared by mighty gods as a gift for future humans who might shiver in the dark.” He returns bearing a large, clay jar spouting with flame, which he places in the sky: A sun to light the world. A lyrical text is accompanied by stunning digitized acrylic and oil paint illustrations in a limited palette. The moon glows brilliantly against a star-studded black sky before the backdrop becomes a buttery cream with the appearance of the sun. Rabbit and Opossum are equally appealing with their smooth curves, velvety fur, and unassuming faces. ©2023 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by David Bowles
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 4-8
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Animals (Fiction)
Cause & Effect
Folk and Fairy Tales
Origin Stories
Diversity subject:
Indigenous
Publisher:
Levine Querido
Publish Year: 2023
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781646142514
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Alvarez-Hernandez