Mamiachi and Me
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 moños 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 Gutiérrez—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!
This gorgeous book is written by my son Dakota Gutiérrez and me and illustrated by the amazing Mirelle Ortega! I can't wait for you to connect with this story that taps into the power inside each of us!
Mamiachi & Me is available in English, Spanish, and an English audio version. It was chosen as a Texas Book Festival Reading Rock Star 2025 book and is a 2026 Pedro & Daniel Intersectionality Book Awards Commended Title!
Teacher's Guide:
"...lyrical descriptions of the mariachi music create an atmosphere that will delight young readers. While all aspects of mariachi are celebrated, it is the spirit of women and sisterhood in mariachi that is in the spotlight. An inspiring introduction to the world of mariachi and women's contributions to it."
