The book is meant for ages 9 to 12 years. Kids experience firsthand the customs, traditions, and cultures of Mexico as they carve an ancient Olmec head, sing in a Mariachi band, build an Aztec step pyramid; concoct Day of the Dead sugar skulls (then eat them!), construct a topo map alive with mountains, valleys, and volcanoes; whip up an authentic meal of home-made tortillas, salsa verde, and Mexican hot chocolate; Ask important questions about poverty, pollution, feeling safe, education, and rural versus urban lifestyles; Discover how art served the needs of ancient peoples, and see how the past collides with the present every day in Mexico; Meet Aztec ruler Moctezuma II, mural artist Diego Rivera, political leader Benito Juarez, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla - the 'father' of Mexican independence, and Spanish colonialist Hernando Cortes.