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Contains reading analysis questions that are aligned with the reading TEKS at the end of each chapter!!!

After losing both parents in tragic incidents, Lucero has decided to run away from authorities before they come for her and place her in an orphanage. It is then that a mysterious woman appears at her doorstep and a series of events that change Lucero’s life forever unravel before her eyes. Author Daisy Lopez explores the history of curanderismo in the border regions of the Rio Grande Valley to reveal Mexican-American cultural traditions of native healers that continue to impact these regions today.

What is CURANDERISMO?

Curanderismo is the practice of native healing rituals that can be traced back to Aztec civilizations.  Curanderos or curanderas practiced healing powers through herbs, mud, and water.  However, after the Spanish invasion, these practices incorporated additional rituals such as prayer.  Curanderas are still found in the lower regions of the Rio Grande Valley.  A historical traditional that beautifies our culture.

Well known curandero: Don Pedrito Jaramillo 

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Humanities Texas-Mrs. Daisy Tucker has just been commended by the 2025 Outstanding Humanities Teacher by Humanities Texas. This prestigious award recognizes her remarkable impact as a humanities educator in Texas. This year, Mrs. Tucker led her 5th-grade students at Drs. Reed and Mock Elementary through an inspiring service-learning project titled "Don’t Wait for a Miracle, Be the Miracle." Their efforts brought in generous donations for the San Juan Nursing Home, directly supporting the daily needs of local elders.As a dual-language teacher, instructional coach, and curriculum writer, Mrs. Tucker’s influence extends far beyond her classroom. She works with districts across the Rio Grande Valley, helping teachers develop effective strategies for improving reading comprehension among emergent bilingual students. Her passion for education is matched by her commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement.Mrs. Tucker is also a celebrated local author. Her books — Voices from the Past, Don’t Kill My Curandera, and Let Love Lead! — have been featured at the University of Texas at San Antonio, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, and UTRGV. These culturally rich texts not only highlight Mexican-American traditions and storytelling but also incorporate comprehensive questions aligned with Texas state exam standards for grades 3–10. Her work has even reached educators as far as Australia, who are eager to integrate Chicano folklore into their own teaching.In addition, she serves on the Texas Education Agency’s Educators Committee and attends national education conferences every summer to advocate for the needs of students in San Juan and the greater Valley.

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© 2018 by Daisy Lopez

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