My Storybook Favorites

Here are the three storybooks that I thought were interesting to read.

Storybook 1: The Demons of Latin America

This storybook covers the tales of la Llorana and el Cucuy, something I grew up hearing about. The title of the storybook was a little vague so it was not until I read the introduction that I knew what is what specifically about. The introduction grabbed my attention, the idea that these characters were driven to their tragedies, specifically that of the Cucuy, was interesting. Hearing about the Cucuy as a child, I was never told there was a background to him and this interpretation was comedic in a sense but still had a tragic backstory. With la Llorana, this one showed her actions being driven by envy and betrayal as opposed to blind loyalty in the tale I heard growing up. The physical layout for la Llorana was amusing  since it was presented as diary entries, and that is something I might be interested I applying in my own project.

Storybook 2: Real Housewives of Greek Mythology

I am somewhat familiar with Greek Mythology and I have always been interested in learning more in this subject. The title portrays exactly what I imagined might be written, especially with Hera as one of the characters. The introduction is compelling and I enjoyed reading it, it draws me in to read more of this project. The storytelling is incredible and entertaining. Along with the author’s notes, this project was well thought out and enjoyable for me, especially with the characterization of Athena. The layout is so fitting for this project, I would like to be able to create a layout like this for my project.

(The Gods at a Gathering: Photo by Wikimedia Commons)

Storybook 3: Queen of the Underworld

The various tales of Hades and Persephone is something I have been interested in and am somewhat familiar with. The title provided a clear idea of what the storybook was going to be about. The introduction did grab my attention and made me want to read the storybook, but it was not what I expected. The introduction painted the image that Persephone made the choice to go to the Underworld on her own as told in some interpretations, but instead the story continued with the tale of abduction. I enjoyed the characterization of Persephone, it provided a contrast to the common image of her as pure innocence that was stolen and tainted by Hades. The whole first-person point of view approach is an interesting one that I will take into consideration for my project.