Mamiachi & Me is a lyrical and empowering picture book written by Jolene and Dakota Gutierrez and illustrated
by Mirelle Ortega, winner of a Pura Belpre Illustrator Honor, about what it means to be a mariachi in an allfemale
band.
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 monos 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 Gutierrez—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!
