
A god's perilous quest to create humanity against all odds.
In ancient Mesoamerica, the gods repeatedly fail to create humans. Only Quetzalcóatl, the Feathered Serpent, refuses to give up. Armed with courage and a few sacred items, he ventures into the underworld to retrieve the bones of creation. Facing fearsome foes and harsh trials, his journey is fraught with danger and mystery. Will he succeed where others have failed, or will the underworld's challenges prove too great? This epic tale of determination and bravery unfolds with vivid storytelling and striking art, capturing the essence of a timeless myth.
Award-winning author and illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh brings an ancient creation myth to life
In the spirit of Tonatiuh’s celebrated book The Princess and the Warrior, this pre-Columbian creation myth tells the story of Quetzalcoatl, or the Feathered Serpent, one of the most important deities in ancient Mesoamerica. When the other gods grow tired in their attempt to create humankind, only one does not give up: the Feathered Serpent. He embarks on a dangerous journey full of fearsome foes and harsh elements, facing each trial with wisdom, bravery, and resourcefulness before confronting his final challenge at Mictlan, the underworld. With his instantly recognizable, acclaimed art style and grand storytelling, Tonatiuh recounts a dazzling creation tale of epic proportions. Includes an author’s note, glossary, and bibliography.
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