by Donna Barba Higuera
illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson
coming November 4, 2025
(4 / 5)
Thank you to Levine Querido and NetGalley for providing a free review copy of Xolo! All opinions are completely my own.
I went into the book with not much knowledge about Aztec mythology, so this was a fun way to learn about it. The artwork in the book looks Aztec-inspired, and I liked how colorful it was. The gods had their actual Aztec names, which I wasn’t very good at pronouncing some of them, but otherwise the story was easy to understand.
This book is retelling a story about Xolotl, one of the Aztec gods. Xolo was a relatable character. I think his story provides some valuable lessons, like how an outcast or perceived monster can actually be a hero. I also liked how it tied in to dogs and their special connection to humans.
I think this book would most appeal to children, probably in older grade school. The pictures keep it from feeling overwhelming while providing more substance than a picture book.
