Jovita Wore Pants

Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter is a picture book biography by Aida Salazar, illustrated by Molly Mendoza. It tells the true story of Jovita Valdovinos, who grew up in Mexico in the early twentieth century and preferred wearing pants to the skirts girls were expected to wear. When her father joins the Cristeros, a rebel movement in conflict with the government, Jovita wants to go with him. After the fighting reaches her own family, she disguises herself as a man and goes on to lead fighters in the rebellion. Salazar, who is distantly related to Jovita, adds back matter with historical background and photographs. Mendoza's vivid art captures both the danger and Jovita's determination. The book is meant for readers about 6 to 9 and received a 2024 Caldecott Honor.