Ancient Night

Name: Ancient Night
ISBN: 9781646142866

by David Bowles

For the child who cherishes family stories and cultural heritage, this book shares a warm Zapotec creation myth during a special night with Grandma.

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About This Book

A parent might reach for this book when their child asks big questions about the moon or when they want to share stories that connect them to their family's heritage. In this gentle tale, a boy named Alejo asks his grandmother why there's a rabbit on the moon, and she shares a beautiful Zapotec creation myth. The story weaves together contemporary family love with ancient tradition, exploring themes of curiosity, belonging, and the power of storytelling to connect us to our roots. Its lyrical prose and stunning illustrations make it an ideal bedtime read for children ages 4 to 8, perfect for sparking conversations about family history, mythology, and the wonders of the night sky.

Love & Family Cultural Identity Fairy Tales & Mythology Curiosity & Wonder Family & Siblings Self-Confidence & Identity Nature & Outdoors Creativity & Imagination

What Parents Should Know

Mild PerilMild

A character offers to be eaten as a sacrifice, but is honored and saved instead.

Sensitive Topics

The myth involves a character (the Great Rabbit) offering to sacrifice himself to be eaten. The approach is metaphorical and gentle. The god does not eat him; instead, he honors the rabbit's selflessness. The tone is reverent and celebratory, focusing on the honor, not the near-death, and the resolution is hopeful.