A mischievous character makes the retelling of a much-loved tale exciting and unexpected. Four young boys, their mama, Dona Z, and the townspeople pursue this elusive husked runaway who refuses to meet his destiny. Find out what's about to happen to this smart-mouthed character who stirs up trouble in this sleepy quiet town. "The Runaway Tamale" offers a Mexican flavor filled with traditions of "Navidad," Christmas, and a fresh look at a classic tale that needed to be told to a broader audience. Virginia Cercado has been sharing this tale with her students over the years with much success. They can appreciate the details of the culture they share. This whimsical story touches each child because Christmas is a time when young and old, immediate and extended families gather to help make tamales using family recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation.