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Duncan Tonatiuh is a Mexican-American author and illustrator whose books include social justice issues, art, history and immigration. Tonatiuh has received several awards pertaining to his children’s books. Tonatiuh is originally from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico where he grew up. When he was older, Duncan attended and graduated from Parsons School of Design as well as Eugene Lang College in NYC. The illustrations and artwork that are in his books are quite unique. They are inspired by Pre-Columbian art. Duncan’s purpose for illustrating his children’s book this way is to honor his culture's past, however with the illustrations still being relevant to people and children of the world today.

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Book 1: Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote; A Migrant's Tale (2013)

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Book 1: Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote; A Migrant's Tale (2013)

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In a symbolic story, a young rabbit named Pancho eagerly anticipates his father's return after Papa Rabbit left two years ago to work in the carrot and lettuce fields up north. When Papa doesn't come back, Pancho embarks on a journey to find him, taking along Papa's favorite meal. Along the way, Pancho encounters a coyote who initially offers to help in exchange for food but eventually reveals darker intentions. Through this tale, Duncan Tonatiuh sheds light on the challenges faced by families seeking a better life by crossing borders illegally.

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Book 2: Undocumented; A Worker's Fight (2018)

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Book 2: Undocumented; A Worker's Fight (2018)

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Juan, a Mexican immigrant, works in the fields to support his family but faces financial hardships. He migrates to the U.S. as an undocumented worker, settling in a low-income neighborhood. Despite being underpaid as a busboy, receiving less than minimum wage, Juan bravely challenges his employer for fair treatment. This graphic novel portrays the struggles and contributions of undocumented immigrant workers in the U.S. workforce.

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Book 3: The Princess and the Warrior; A Tale of Two Volcanoes (2001)

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Book 3: The Princess and the Warrior; A Tale of Two Volcanoes (2001)

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In "The Princess and the Warrior," Izta, the beautiful princess, falls in love with Popoca, a brave warrior. Despite her father's initial disapproval, he challenges Popoca to defeat their enemy, Jaguar Claw, to earn the right to marry Izta. This sets the stage for a tale of bravery, love, and sacrifice that culminates in the creation of the legendary volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, in Mexico. This cherished legend has been passed down through generations and continues to be an integral part of Mexican folklore.

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Funny Bones is a story about the creation of calaveras-skeletons by Mexican artist Jose Guadalupe Posada. Initially drawing political cartoons, Posada later became famous for his calavera drawings, now closely associated with Mexico's Dia de los Muertos festival. Through Duncan Tonatiuh's book, readers discover the intriguing life and artwork of Posada, shedding light on a beloved artist whose name has been relatively unknown.

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When Sylvia Mendez and her family moved to Westminster, California, she was eager to attend the neighborhood school. However, they were denied entry and told to go to the Mexican school instead. Despite being American citizens who spoke English fluently, they faced segregation. Unable to accept this injustice, the Mendez family took legal action. Their efforts led to the end of segregated schooling in California in 1947, preceding the famous Brown v. Board of Education case. Duncan Tonatiuh's illustrated book captures Sylvia Mendez's inspiring journey towards justice and equality.

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Researched by: Kaela Robertson

ELTL 504 Summer 2024

June 29th 2024

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Until completing this author study, I had not heard of author and illustrator, Duncan Tonatiuh. Upon reading some of his children’s books, I can see why he has won multiple awards for his creations. Tonatiuh’s illustrations are truly eye-catching and the contrast in vibrant colors are sure to keep any child engaged. I enjoyed learning about a Mexican legend that is described in The Princess and the Warrior (2001). I think Tonatiuh did a great job bringing social justice, art, history and immigration to life. He did it in a way that is understandable for children while keeping the integrity of the story in check. Tonatiuh’s books act as a window into the world of others. He showcases hardships, injustices and ties in important bits of the history of Mexico. He  has received numerous prestigious awards for his exceptional 'windows,' including the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award, The Pura Belpré Medal, Sibert Medal, The Tomás Rivera Mexican-American Children’s Book Award, The Américas Award, and the New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Award.

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Duncan Tonatiuh- images and stories, imágenes e historias. (n.d.-a). https://duncantonatiuh.com/about-me/

Illustrationclass. (2019, June 27). Viva duncan tonatiuh! Illustration Concentration. https://illustrationconcentration.com/2019/06/27/viva-duncan-tonatiuh/