CBR15Passport, author/country
The Lizard Prince and Other South American Stories includes funny, sweet, tense, endearing, thriller, even a bit of horror, stories. This book runs the gambit of folktales, legends, and lore. Know your reader, as not all are for everyone (there are some mature themes, scenes, and concepts). The stories were sensual, romantic, sad, thoughtful, little scary and even confusing. The translations might make a few bumps, but also the cultural differences are not necessarily things younger readers will understand, or relate, too. However, it is wonderfully done and a great introduction to the cultures presented. The themes are universal, it is just the presentations that can be different.
Each illustrator is unique and captures the sensation of the story perfectly. They range from cute and clever to mature and sensational. The last story of the collection has some discreet nudity (the hair, clothing and items cover a woman’s body/breast area) but you know what is happening. Yet, there are silly, cute cartoon stories as well. There is something for everyone. I am not sure what color schemes might be used (I read via online, and item is due mid-April 2023) but the details also vary. These differences help break up the story and you can continue without thinking you are still in the same story.
A mix of contemporary and classic is combined to create these stories. It is an experience book and both an easy and difficult read. Take your time, don’t rush, and even read some more than once. Kate Ashwin edited, along with Kel McDonald and Alberto Rayo this collection. The illustrators can be seen in table of contents.
Due mid-April 2023 read readers copy from Edelweiss.