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“A young Latine girl is thrilled to join her mother’s all-female mariachi band. …The authors artfully convey Rosa’s journey from uncertainty (“My knees are knocking, weak and wobbly”) to triumph: “I feel like I am soaring through the melody, painting a picture with my hands and using my voice to tell our story.” A heartfelt testament to the power of family and culture and the courage to find one’s voice.”

– Kirkus Reviews

Mamiachi & Me: My Mami’s Mariachi Band

Written by Jolene Gutiérrez and Dakota Gutiérrez
Illustrated by Mirelle Ortega
Published by Abrams Books for Young Readers

Today’s the day! Rosa will take the stage next to her mami and play along with her popular mariachi band. But as they fasten the shiny botonaduras and tie the moños on their charra suits, Rosa begins to worry. What if the audience doesn’t like her? Is she ready to perform?

With her mamiachi and madrinas by her side, Rosa’s stage fright is soothed away by the sound of trumpets, guitars, and violins. Centering on the power of sisterhood, community, and music, the warm and lively text by mother-and-son writing duo Jolene and Dakota Gutiérrez—joined by Mirelle Ortega’s beautiful illustrations—provides a unique perspective to the male-dominated world of mariachi.

Back matter includes additional context on the history of the beloved Mexican tradition and the rise of all-female mariachi groups, as well as a glossary, a bibliography, further reading, and a fun, detailed look at a mariachi’s signature charro suit!

Look for the Spanish version, Mamiachi y Yo: El Mariachi de Mi Mami.

Primary ISBN: 9781419767159
Publication Date: January 2025
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , ,

Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Source: www.jolenegutierrez.com