In Frida and Her Animalitos, we learn about Frida Kahlo's childhood and the cherished pets in her life, her special relationship with each of them and how they inspired her work. Her menagerie included two monkeys, a parrot, three dogs, two turkeys, an eagle, a black cat and a fawn. And their names! Her pair of monkeys were called Fulang Chang and Caimito Del Guayabal. Bonito, her parrot, would do tricks at the dinner table for pats of butter.
Despite experiencing major difficulties early on in life, she had an independent and indomitable spirit, a healthy curiosity and participated in her fair share of mischief. Frida's animalitos were a big part of her life and were a source of joy and companionship, in good times and bad.
Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos was written by Monica Brown, illustrated by John Parra and published by North South Books. It will be published in English and Spanish editions on September 5. You can watch a book trailer here and a Frida Kahlo discussion guide is available here on North South Books' website.