The Cid by Justo Jimeno (Concordia 6009)

Treat yourself to El Cid by Justo Jimeno (Concordia 6009)

The Cid (Concordia 6009)

By Justo Jimeno

48 pages, 21 color and format. 2 black and white artist prints.

Rodrigo Díaz, El Cid, the great Spanish warrior, was born in 1046. Rodrigo grew up with Sancho II, who later became King Sancho of Castile. Throughout his early career, Rodrigo served with distinction under King Sancho. El Cid helped the king defeat Alfonso and García, Sancho's brothers, and seized their kingdoms, León, and Galicia. Later, El Cid laid siege to Zamora, the city of Urraca, Sancho's sister. It was during the siege that Sancho was assassinated. Alfonso succeeded Sancho as king, and El Cid continued his service under King Alfonso. El Cid assisted Alfonso in the wars against the Moors and earned the respect of the Spanish people.

However, Alfonso envied the Cid's successes and exiled him. Many armed men joined the Cid during his exile, and this army fought many battles against the Muslims. In 1099, the Cid died of battle wounds, a major blow to medieval Christian Spain.

Justo Jimeno is a scholar and artist. This book traces El Cid from his youth to his death, supported by a well-written story and illustrations. Jimeno is a very talented artist, and his unique illustration style is well represented in this book.