The Lizard Prince and Other South American Stories is a compilation of tales by different artists. As such, each account stands distinct from the previous one, not just in the story but in the visual storytelling. It reimagines stories often unheard of in the United States, broadening the scope of legends for readers to enjoy. Given the variety in The Lizard Prince and Other South American Stories, it’s easy to consume and revisit to enjoy your favorites.
Edited by Kate Ashwin, Kel McDonald, and Alberto Rayo, the twelve tales range from sweet to bittersweet and downright chilling. From Iron Circus Comics, there are plenty of enjoyable stories to revisit. Even better, the Table of Contents includes the name of each tale’s name and country of origin. They traverse the spectrum of human nature, including kindness and cruelty with nature spirits.
The Lizard Prince and Other South American Stories Starts Strong And Keeps Climbing
I love the opening story from Peru. “The Muki’s Deal,” by Rick Lazo, reminds me of stories about brownies and hobs that help people. However, they can also turn vicious, especially if they are unappreciated. Sometimes, people believe a person or being is evil simply because that’s what others tell them. It’s a lesson about not making deals lightly and considering what your gut tells you about someone.
Other tales like “Pineapple Wishes,” by Luisa F. Rojas, teach an appreciation for history. What makes these stories special is that it’s not only for children. Adults can take something positive from reading this collection. Learning the origin of a name or word always creates a magnetic layer. After all, words have power, and reading allows an appreciation for that power.
Some More Frightful Than Others
It’s not all sweet stories with cheerful endings. Some deliver frights. “A Girl and Her Bird,” by Coni Yovaniniz, reminds me of something out of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark. That last panel is nightmare-inducing. But what also stands out is how tales have similarities across the world. Whether it’s a banshee or a tué, both talk about a harbinger that makes noise to signify an incoming loss.
Another tale, “Madre de Agua,” by Shadia Amin, highlights the duality of good and evil. By day the water spirit is caring and helpful. But by night, she is deadly, an entirely different person. Plus, I remember hearing tales about mermaids from friends that were more gruesome than the Disney version.
Beautiful Origin Stories
The Lizard Prince and Other South American Stories include stories that make you wonder about the origin of the wind. Similar to how some say the rain is God’s tears. “Myth of the Condor,” by Diego Carvajal, is a Peruvian, Andean Mountains tale about love and loss. Another, titled “Yara,” by Nique, is a tale from Venezuela about a shapeshifting goddess and highlights women’s strength.
The Lizard Prince and Other South American Stories explores perception and nature. Sometimes first impressions prove false; other times, they are spot on. They are universal stories that explain the mysterious world around us. But they are also distinctly, beautifully South American. Fans of history or fairy tales will love this collection.
