Funny Bones

Funny Bones tells the story of how the amusing calaveras—skeletons performing various everyday or festive activities—came to be. They are the creation of Mexican artist José Guadalupe (Lupe) Posada. In a country that was not known for political freedom of speech, he first drew political cartoons, much to the amusement of the local population but not the politicians. He continued to draw cartoons throughout much of his life, but he is best known today for his calavera drawings. They have become synonymous with Mexico’s Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival. Juxtaposing his own art with that of Lupe’s, author Duncan Tonatiuh brings to light the remarkable life and work of a man whose art is beloved by many but whose name has remained in obscurity.The book includes an author’s note, bibliography, glossary, and index.

**STARRED REVIEW** "A wealth of biographical and contextual information... it's a valuable introduction to Posada that will leave readers thinking about the process of creating art and the social impact it can have."-- "Publishers Weekly", **STARRED REVIEW** "Playful but informative, this picture book offers a fascinating introduction to the artist and his work."-- "Booklist", **STARRED REVIEW** "The beautifully expressive Day of the Dead-inspired illustrations on heavy paper pages sport borders of bones, grinning skeletons, and Tonatiuh's signature figures shown in profile, influenced by the ancient Mexican art of his ancestors. Simple yet effective sentences accompany step-by-step images detailing the artistic processes that Posada learned as a printer's apprentice... A stunning work, with great possibilities for lesson plans or tie-ins with Day of the Dead."-- "School Library Journal", **STARRED REVIEW** "Tonatiuh skillfully blends his own distinctive style of digital collage and hand drawings not only to highlight events in Posada's life, but also to add whimsical elements by introducing contemporary calaveras. He incorporates amusing, thoughtful exercises for young readers into the narrative, prompting them to interpret the messages behind Posada's artwork... Tonatiuh further marks himself as a major nonfiction talent with this artistically beautiful and factually accessible offering that effectively blends artistic and political content for young readers."-- "Kirkus Reviews"

Duncan Tonatiuh was born in Mexico City and grew up in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, where he now lives.