OP: Tortillas
Travis Incorporated, Tucson, 1979. Paperback. Very Good.
This rare and unusual children’s book is the resulting collaboration of three southwestern artists—author Alvin Gordon, musician Travis Edmonson (1932–2009), and illustrator Ted De Grazia (1909–1982)—to create a multi-sensory experience.
The brief narrative follows a young, Mexican shepherd who passes the time by standing in the cookhouse doorway, watching his mother make tortillas and impatiently awaiting his snack. De Grazia’s vibrant and lively illustrations accompany the text on every facing page. Edmonson’s contribution comes in the form of a 45 rpm record tucked in the rear flap.
While Side 1 of the record is Al Gordon’s narration of the story, Side 2 is Edmonson’s catchy original folk tune Tortillas Song with lyrics in both Spanish and English. It’s a delightful addition to the story, and, frankly, the highlight.
The staplebound paperback is in Very Good condition with a slight bend to the upper corners. The record is present and plays well.
