Jovita Wore Pants:
The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter
By: Aida Salazar
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Genre: Juvenile Nonfiction
Published: March 7, 2023
*Review & quotations are based on a proof copy*
Reviewer Marisa Marquez
The true story of Jovita Valdovinos who became a leader during the second wave of the Cristero Revolution that took place in Mexico during the 1920s-30s. Following Jovita from when she was a young high strong girl to when her family was pulled apart by the revolution. Through many losses Jovita was able to stay resilient and fight for what she believed was right. Aida Salazar and the illustrator Molly Mendoza present a powerful story of a true fighter from history; readers are sure to be inspired through the vibrant and breathtaking images that reflect the fire that is Jovita.
Consider adding this book to your library:
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To start a conversation with your little one about female roles throughout history.
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To introduce a woman of color to your knowledge of historical figures.
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To enjoy tale of resilience and vibrant illustrations.
When my eyes first fell on this book I was taken aback by its beauty and by the name: Jovita. I am seeing more and more Mexican representation and I am here for it!
My abuelita’s name is Jovita or Jovi more often than not. I have always dreamed of telling a story with her name as the protagonist because it is a name that I have rarely ever seen out in the world. Seeing it in a bright bold yellow had me squealing and checking out this book instantly.
While reading this story with my daughter at bedtime I found we were both absorbed by the illustrations and pulled along for the ride that was Jovita’s life. To read of how she rebelled at a young age and how she was persistent as the war continued kept me turning the page.
Salazar does not go into detail on events, but mentions highlights of Jovita’s life. By doing so she introduces the historical figure to readers, creating an invitation for readers to explore further. To invite readers to ask questions and consider questions like: why did Jovita have to be left behind when her brothers and father went to fight? Why could she only listen to the talk of strategy, but not speak herself. Why was her appearance such a big deal?
There is an image in which Jovita is presented chopping off her hair. Myself and my boyfriend (who was also present during storytime) thought the same thing, it’s like she is a Mexican Mulan. But the more I thought about it the more I thought–no. I love the story of Mulan, but I don’t want to mash the two together as I think it is a disservice to Jovita who is her own person with her own story. Mulan in my opinion is a legend that is inspired by truth and like Mulan, Jovita is one of many brave women/womxn whose story was neglected to be told.
Salazar presents Jovitas story with care and supplies a great summary of her life at the end that was informative to read.
I love this book because of the conversation it inspired and because of who I have learned about. Although M (my daughter) fell asleep to the story I will most definitely buy it so that we can make it a permanent part of our library. It reflects our culture and having another badass Mexicana to look up to is all the excuse I need to buy another book.
Ready to read? Buy the book here at my Bookshop!