This collection of bilingual poems about a young Nahuatl boy explores the bitter effect of blatant racism and the healing power of Mother Earth. A loving Nahuatl grandmother has taught Tetl—also called Jorge—to seek spiritual sustenance from Mother Earth. These poems delve into the pain of bigotry while simultaneously celebrating the healing power found in ancient stones, the song of birds, the gift of corn, the warmth of the sun, the playful spirit of the wind, and the life-giving water. mm

An Americas Award Commended Title

Raw, honest and powerful, these moving bilingual poems by noted Salvadoran poet Jorge Argueta explore a young Indigenous boy's connection to Mother Earth and how he is healed from the terrible wounds of racism he has endured. Tetl has learned from his grandmother about the spirituality of his ancestors, about how they viewed the earth as alive with sacred meaning. This helps him move from doubt and fear, created by the taunts of other children, to self-acceptance and a discovery of his love for nature.

Mountains, wind, corn and stones all speak to Tetl, almost seeming to vibrate with life. He feels deep roots in them and, through them, he learns to speak and sing. They reveal his Nahuatl self and he realizes that he is special, beautiful and sacred.These gripping poems have something to teach us all, perhaps especially those who have been either intentionally or casually cruel or racist, as well as those who have been the victims of racism.