Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Friends wrestle Aztec god in vibrant, zany graphic novel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In LOWRIDERS TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH, Lupe Impala, El Chavo Flapjack, and Elirio Malaria set off in search of their missing cat, Genie, in their souped-up set of wheels. Their quest takes them through a strange corn maze, into the center of the Earth, and down to the Aztec underworld. There they face off against an Aztec god, Mictlantecuhtli. To save Genie, they'll have to defeat Mic in the wrestling ring.
Is It Any Good?
This gonzo graphic novel has the velocity of Book 1 but heads in a new, even more exciting direction. Lupe, Elirio, and El Chavo Flapjack are as wacky and warm as ever, putting their lives and livelihood on the line for their beloved cat. Lowriders to the Center of the Earth celebrates Latino culture, provides memorable dialogue in Spanish, and offers a highly detailed picture of Aztec mythology. Author Cathy Camper and illustrator Raul the Third pull out all the stops to present a fast-moving adventure with vibrant, surrealistic artwork and clever character designs. Reluctant readers will be drawn to the series by its refreshing, anything-goes attitude and multicultural flavor.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Aztec mythology is presented in Lowriders to the Center of the Earth. What other books about mythology have you read?
Why do so many cultures and religions feature an afterlife beneath the Earth?
Do you think the punches and kicks in televised wrestling matches are real?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Raul the Third
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Transportation ( Cars & Trucks ) , Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Chronicle Books
- Publication date : July 5, 2016
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 128
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate