Nino Wrestles the World written and illustrated by Yuyi Morales. Roaring Book Press, 2013. ISBN 978-1-59643-604-6
Summary: Nino may appear to be an average boy, but when he swaps his regular clothes for his Lucha Libra mask and trunks (really his underwear), he becomes a fierce wrestler, ready to take on all challengers. Mummies, ghosts, and even the devil himself are no match for Nino, who uses such moves as the Tickle Tackle and the Popsicle Slick to defeat his opponents. He feels no fear, and outmaneuvers each opponent with sharp wit and lightning quick agility.
But then, Nino is confronted by his toughest match yet: the double trouble pairing of his two little sisters. Will Nino emerge as a winner, or will these ruthless challengers defeat him once and for all?
Critical Evaluation: Yuyi Morales has crafted an action-packed tale full of the dramatic spirit of Lucha Libre wrestling. Every detail in Morales' illustrations, from the typeface, the sound effects, and the stylized representation of the characters, adds to the overall authentic feel of this exciting tale.
The potentially frightening opponents are tamed by the lighthearted style utilized by Morales, and children familiar with these spooky Mexican monsters and legends will be emboldened by Nino's brave moves and triumphs.
The depictions of each of Nino's challengers on the book's endpapers provide a humorous back story for each wrestler, along with pronunciation guides for non-Spanish speakers. Included in the text are many Spanish terms which are faithful to the world of Lucha Libre, but whose meaning is easily determined through context.
This is a fun account of a boy's love for wrestling, and will appeal to children who love stories filled with action and silliness.
Age or Interest Level: Pre-K to Grade 2
Lexile Level: 260L
Awards:Pura Belpre Illustrator Award, Charlotte Zolotow Award / Highly Commended, Horn Book Fanfare, ALSC Notable Children's Book
Why Included? This is a wonderfully unique introduction to the world of Lucha Libre wrestling for those unfamiliar with this aspect of Latino culture.