The Dragon Slayer: Folktales from Latin America - (Toon Latin American Folktales) by Jaime Hernandez (Paperback)

About the Book

"A collection of three Latin American folktales retold in graphic novel form"--

Book Synopsis

How would a kitchen maid fare against a seven-headed dragon? What happens when a woman marries a mouse? And what can a young man learn from a thousand leaf cutter ants? Famed Love and Rockets creator Jaime Hernandez asks these questions and more as he transforms beloved myths into bold, stunning, and utterly contemporary comics. Guided by the classic works of F. Isabel Campoy and Alma Flor Ada, Hernandez's first book for young readers brings the sights and stories of Latin America to a new generation of graphic-novel fans around the world.

Review Quotes

TEXAS BLUEBONNET AWARD 2019-20 MASTER LIST
WINNER 2018 AESOP PRIZE (AMERICAN FOLKLORE SOCIETY)
NEW YORK TIMES EDITORS' CHOICE
NAMED TO KIRKUS' REVIEWS BEST BOOKS OF 2018
NPR 2018 GREAT READS
"A trio of Latin American folktales are given a makeover in the children's-book debut of one of the brothers behind famed graphic-novel series Love and Rockets...In his six-panel pages, Hernandez flexes his considerable storytelling skills, his deceptively simple art conveying all the detail, nuance, and expression of character each story needs...In addition to the tales themselves, the book opens with an on-point essay by author F. Isabel Campoy putting the mix of Spanish and Native American influences in context...María E. Santana's simultaneously publishing Spanish-language translation is identical in look but far from dry, flawlessly employing its own language quirks. Rousing tales, spirited artwork, and rich backmatter ensure that this slim graphic novel for kids becomes a rich resource for all caregivers, not just those of Latinx children." - Kirkus Reviews STARRED REVIEW
"These delightfully rendered stories should easily find a home in the folktale/fairy-tale section of any library." - School Library Journal
"This beautifully designed collection, with amiable art in lovely full color, is perfect for bedtime read-aloud or a lesson on traditional folktales." - Booklist
"With its eye-catching design, appealing cover, and its spirited stories, you may have to pry this entertaining and informative book from the hands of children." - Julie Danielson's "Four Favorites" on the Kirkus blog
"It's a perfect work for adults who grew up on Love and Rockets to share with their children, and it's an equally perfect introduction to the rich folklore immediately to the south of the U.S." - Good Comics for Kids on the SLJ Blog
"One of the best folktale and fairy tale-based comics I've seen...The Dragon Slayer is a sweet, short burst of smart, loving comics, and comes highly recommended." - Kinder Comics
"I absolutely love this introduction to Latin American folktales, and can only hope there's a volume 2 somewhere down the line. This is such a great addition to folk and fairy tale collections and diverse, culturally rich collections." - Mom Read It
"Campoy's introduction, and the tales' origins and bibliography, including art reproductions, in the back matter, combine to enrich understanding of the culture of these strong heroines and heroes. Hernandez's vivid illustrations make the tales modern, relatable and universal." - Youth Services Book Review Massachusetts


Finalist for 2019 Excellence In Graphic Literature Award, Best in Children's Graphic Literature (Fiction)!