New Mexico State Library

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Ever wonder how hollyhocks came to New Mexico?

Rudolfo Anaya has the answer.

The 14th annual Library of Congress National Book Festival will take place at the end of the month – and New Mexico is ready to go!

How Hollyhocks Came to New MexicoThe New Mexico State Library has chosen Rudolfo Anaya’s “How Hollyhocks Came to New Mexico” to represent our state in the Pavilion of the States at the 2014 Festival. The Pavilion of the States features one book selected by each of the 50 states, Washington, D.C. and the U.S. Territories. NMSL Public Services Librarian Lori Thornton coordinates New Mexico’s involvement in the festival.

“How Hollyhocks Came to New Mexico” is a bilingual, fanciful folk tale that helps explain the beautiful flowers that can be seen in all parts of New Mexico in the summer and fall seasons. Anaya blends history in this story, showing how different cultures can work together peacefully and respect the land we all need.

Anaya is an acclaimed author and teacher who has won many awards including the National Endowment for the Arts National Medal of Arts.

Anaya is “surprised and delighted that ‘How Hollyhocks Came to New Mexico’ has been chosen to represent New Mexico at the National Book Festival this August.”

“Wow! I’m happy and humbled,” he added.

The native New Mexican has written many books for children and adults, his first being the acclaimed novel, “Bless Me, Ultima.”

The book is illustrated by Nicolás Otero, an award winning santero, and translated by Nasario García, an award winning author and teacher.

Add “How Hollyhocks Came to New Mexico” to your collection in celebration of the National Book Fest!

For updates on the National Book Festival, follow the Library of Congress on Twitter!

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