Product Description

The Cahuilla Indians believed that powerful beings called Nukatem were the first to be created. Menill the moon maiden was one of them. The Moon Maiden legend is important to the Cahuilla people because she is a mother figure who taught her adopted children the lessons they needed for their health, well-being, and survival. Her story teaches us important lessons about educating and teaching our children. “I was inspired to make this book because I admire Menill as a role model who is caring, good, kind, and always giving. Each Cahuilla clan tells their own version of the moon maiden story and some are not appropriate for children. This is the version from my great-grandmother, Ruby Modesto. Ruby embodied the moon maiden spirit and I dedicate this book to all of her children.”