Tuchi longs to join in and play with the school's mariachi band, but it's the 1970s and in her community, mariachi is only for the boys. Still she hopes--and wishes on Seńora Luna. When Tuchi stumbles across her nana's guitarrón, Nana teaches her to play in secret. The music rumbles inside Tuchi like desert thunder. Will Tuchi be ready for the big audition? And will Seńora Luna help Tuchi make her wish come true?
A 2024 International Latino Book Award for Most Inspirational Children's Picture Book - English
A 2024 Book List Honoree as recognized by Rise: A Feminist Book Project, a task force of the American Library Association
An Own Voices Own Stories award-winning book that reflects authentic, diverse experiences and underrepresented perspectives
Interest level: Kindergarten - Grade 3 Reading level: Grade 1 Language: English Publication date: July 15, 2023 Page count: 32 pages with full-color illustrations Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press ISBN-13: 978-1534111912
childrens books, picture books, mariachi, picture books for Hispanic Heritage Month, Latino childrens books, books by Latina authors, Latina illustrators, picture books about music, books on girls issues
You often hear “Write about what you love,” and so I did with LA MARIACHI! Inspiration for Tuchi’s story arose from my love of music, especially mariachi, and this idea of finding your voice. There are many themes woven into Tuchi’s story: the celebration of my Mexican-American culture expressed through mariachi music, the value of family and nurturing intergenerational relationships, the joy of music-making, the pursuit of your dream, and the courage to persevere in the face of obstacles. I hope this story will inspire young readers to pursue their passion and believe in oneself!
