The Children of the Sun: An Inca Legend is based on the original mythology of the Incan people. Author Micaela Chirif created this book so it is able to be adapted to allow multiple ages to relate to it, but it does lean towards an older reader or listener as its audience. It can be intense in the way it talks about the god-like children (who are fully grown) who wander to find the first home (or make the first city) for the humans. It is not action based, so the more active child might not be interested in things. It is thoughtful and can be emotionally intense, but not overwhelming.
The illustrations of Juan Palomino are almost abstract, with romantic and folk art imagery. They give the Inca origin story both classical and modern tones and are capturing the culture of the people and the place well. Things are not necessarily “cozy” but are also not overly harsh either. They are a mix of the two emotions so the mythology and almost abstract images add a mysterious and otherworldly element of the actual story.
This due in late March early April 2026 title is a good one to add to your collection of folk, fairy tales and mythology. Or if you teach Caribbean & Latin American, historical civilizations, indigenous peoples or similar subjects. This is due to the story itself and included extras which expand on the themes of the story and the Incan people. Read via an online reader copy. The book was translated by Lawrence Schimel.