El joven Zorro: La marca de hierro. (Young Zorro: The Branding Iron)

Reviewed by Paul M. Kienlen, WalzemElementary School, San Antonio, TX -- Críticas, 8/15/2007

Gr 4-8–Based on the novel Zorro, by Isabel Allende, this edition tells of some of the hero’s adventures as a maturing adolescent. Set in southern California back when that territory was still under Spanish rule, Diego de la Vega lives as a young cowboy on his father’s impressive ranch. Along with Bernardo, his hermano de leche (so called because Bernardo’s mother nursed both boys), Diego spends his days rounding up cattle, branding, perfecting his horsemanship, and helping out with the ranch’s general chores. When numerous cattle, along with some of the area’s most esteemed craftsmen inexplicably disappear from the community, Diego and Bernardo begin to investigate and slowly piece together the puzzle. A true adventure ensues, and the mystery is solved, but is justice truly delivered? The story details the harsh reality of the young Spanish settlement of Los Angeles, the history of the mission, and the social customs of the time. The translation is superb; and the organized narrative structure provides an enjoyable account. Even resistant readers will be enthralled by the subject and intriguing plot; and will not mind the lack of illustrations. This well-developed saga is highly recommended for all library and bookstore collections.