The Legend of Mexicatl

Based on the 1998 picture book written by Jo Harper and illustrated by Robert Casilla, this iconographic adaptation of The Legend of Mexicatl limns the Aztec legend of the founding of Mexico. Chosen by the Great Spirit to lead his people to the “place of harmony,” young Mexicatl shepherds his tribe to the promised land, but then sets himself above the people as an almighty ruler who does not share in the work. After his mother explains to Mexicatl that the people are unhappy, he divines the true meaning of the Great Spirit's words (“where the highest meets the lowest, there is harmony”) and assumes the mantle of benevolent leadership, working alongside his neighbors. Although the message is solid, the technical aspects of the video are a little disappointing, as the narration has a hurried quality and the background music is distractingly repetitive in places. Optional. Aud: E, P. (R. Pitman)