Copo de Algodón

Gr 6—8—This is the captivating story of the daughter of Princess Tacuba and Emperor Montezuma Xocoyotzin, born in the era of the Fifth Sun. Through her unique perspective, readers learn of familiar occurrences during the Aztec Empire such as wars, human sacrifices, the arrival of Hernán Cortés, and her marriage. Copo de Algodón's observations are genuine, much in the way that a girl today might view the world around her. However, she is not a typical fairy-tale princess waiting to be rescued by her prince. She is a warrior and a symbol of an empire that built Mexico. Though this is a work of fiction, the story was inspired by the life of Princess Tecuixpo Ixtlaxóchitl (c. 1507—1550), also known as Isabel Moctezuma. Almada Rivero's pen illustrations depict the young woman's emotions as she experiences major and often frightening life events, as well as details that reveal her Aztec world. Information available about the Aztec empire is often limited in perspective to its mighty emperors and gods. Reading this novel will give children the rare opportunity to embrace an important time in Mexican history told from the viewpoint of its women and children.—Jessica McClinton López, King County Library System, Auburn WA