Description
Mundinovi
Book Summary
Mundinovi is a poetic work that pays homage to the world of puppets and marionettes, written by an author who has been a puppeteer. Winner of the 8th International City of Orihuela Prize for Children's Poetry, this collection of poems gives a voice to characters from the performing tradition such as Don Cristóbal, Tía Norica, or the Witch, rescuing them from the puppet stage to endow them with a new lyrical dimension. Divided into three parts, the book invites young readers to discover the magic of puppet theater through verses that explore the lives and emotions of these rag creatures.
What is it about?
The book is structured into three sections that explore different perspectives of the puppetry world. The first part, "Puppet Diary," presents experiences narrated in the first person by the puppet characters themselves, offering an intimate look at their lives on stage. The work also pays tribute to the legacy of Argentine puppeteer Javier Villafañe, creator of Maese Trotamundos, who stars in one of the most prominent poems. Throughout its pages, the author recovers classic figures of popular theater such as Don Cristóbal, Chacolí, Tía Norica, or the Witch, transforming them into lyrical protagonists that come to life beyond the puppet stage. The title, Mundinovi, refers to a small 16th-century traveling theater that performed scenes of the New World, connecting historical tradition with contemporary poetic imagination.
Main Themes
- The world of puppets and marionettes as an artistic and cultural expression.
- The tradition of puppet theater and its legacy in children's literature.
- Poetry as a vehicle to give voice to inanimate objects and stage characters.
- Homage to historical figures of the puppetry art, such as Javier Villafañe.
- Exploration of identity and emotions through rag characters.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at children aged 8 and up who are interested in poetry, theater, and the performing arts. It is also ideal for reading mediators, educators, and families looking for works that combine literary quality with a playful and creative approach. It is especially recommended for those who want to enter the universe of puppets from a poetic and sensitive perspective.
What this book offers
- A lyrical and original approach to the world of puppet theater, enriching the understanding of this performing tradition.
- Poems that foster imagination and empathy by giving life and voice to inanimate characters.
- A connection with the cultural heritage of popular theater, presented in an accessible and attractive way for young readers.
- A clear and progressive structure that facilitates reading and reflection on the different aspects of the art of puppetry.
Technical Specifications
- Author: Martín Ramos, Juan Carlos
- Publisher: Kalandraka
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: Puppet theater, marionettes and portable theaters, poetry, picture books, activity books, poetry (children's/young adult)
- Collection: Orihuela
- Binding: Hardcover
- Publication Date: March 2016
- Number of pages: 56
- Weight: 215 g
Editorial Review
Mundinovi stands out for its ability to fuse poetry and performing tradition in an organic and emotional way. Juan Carlos Martín Ramos, with his experience as a puppeteer, manages to convey the magic of puppet characters through careful and accessible verses. The work not only entertains, but also educates about the cultural heritage of puppet theater, offering young readers a gateway to an age-old art form. Its three-part structure and the tribute to Javier Villafañe add layers of meaning that can be explored by both children and adults interested in quality children's literature.