Montezuma's Tantrum

Emperor Montezuma’s court tries everything to cure his bad mood in this delightful and hilarious story that sheds light on life in the Aztec empire—and the origins of hot chocolate.

Montezuma is in a bad mood today. He doesn’t want to see anyone or do anything! The people in the palace are very worried. They try everything they can to make Montezuma smile. They bring gifts, make music, and even dance. What to do?

This vibrantly illustrated picture book shares the enduring symbols of Aztec life, from Quetzalcóatl, the magnificent plumed serpent, to its temples, codices, drums, and Montezuma’s elaborate palace full of people and creatures. At the center of the story is xocolátl, a delicious treat enjoyed by Indigenous peoples of Mexico long before the Spaniards arrived. Today xocolátl (chocolate) is eaten, drunk, and enjoyed all over the world.

But before all that happened, Montezuma had a tantrum…