Daughter of the Light-Footed People: The Story of Indigenous Marathon Champion

Medina and Rojas Castro relate the story of Indigenous Mexican ultramarathon runner Lorena Ramírez (b. 1995) in this exuberant picture book, a double debut. “As a proud daughter of the Rarámuri, ‘the light-footed people,’ ” Ramírez regularly runs long distances in huaraches and a homemade skirt. Employing “strength built from herding goats and cows... patience built from walking for hours to buy food,” she exhibits physical stamina that propels her against hundreds of racers in events that crisscross the world. Fluidly rendered digital illustrations showcase stunning desert colors with a bold palette, depicting flora and fauna amid the runners, portrayed with various skin tones. Emphasizing the way “her muscles draw energy from the earth with every footfall,” it’s a narrative that celebrates Ramírez’s determination, legacy, and grit. A biographical note and sources conclude. Ages 4–8. (June)