Zorro by Isabel Allende (2006)

Another wonderful book from Allende about 19th century California. The main characters go to Spain to be educated and land in New Orleans for a brief stay on their way back, so we see the situation in all three of these places. I've always liked the character of Zorro, and now Allende offered a detailed account of how this fictional character got to be the way he was, set in the a solid background of historical California, Spain, and New Orleans. The story is told by one of the characters in the book, and though I guessed about midway, she reveals herself only at the end. There is plenty of adventure and swash-buckling, but we learn where Zorro learned his fencing skills, his skills with horses, and his ability to climb all over the place (on a ship's rigging). It also explains the history of and Zorro's connection with his silent Indian friend. All in all, a fun read, with lots to learn. Wanting to read more about Spain at that time, and am trying to find more information on the pirate Jean Lefitte. Most of the books in our library are about the Jean Lefitte National Park.