Secret of the Andes takes readers deep into the heart of the Andes Mountains, where the story dances across a tapestry of interconnected settings—ranging from sequestered canyons to the bustling city of Cuzco. The varying distances and elevations among these locations highlight the profound solitude woven into the fabric of life amidst these majestic peaks. In particular, this seclusion amplifies the notion that echoes of history continue to resonate powerfully in the lives of the characters who dwell there today.

The title, Secret of the Andes, hints at an enigmatic allure rooted in the mystique of the landscape itself. Indeed, the narrative unfurls magnificent panoramas that capture the awe-inspiring splendor and grandeur of the Andes. This dramatic expanse deepens Cusi's sense of isolation. His solitude is softened only by his steadfast care for the llamas and the reassuring presence of a wise elder guardian. As the boy's inner turmoil mounts, the enigma of the landscape intertwines with an exploration of his own identity. He is driven by an overwhelming need to unravel the mysteries of his origins—discovering who he truly is, where he hails from, and the identity of his parents.

The enthralling allure of Secret of the Andes lies in Clark's masterful weaving of myth, history, and legend into the narrative of a modern-day hero. The story's mythical essence unveils the Incan belief in the Sun God, Inti, who is said to have emerged from the waters of Lake Titicaca before embarking on a journey to Cuzco. Each ruling Inca was subsequently revered as a direct descendant of this divine entity.

The curtain fell on the Incan dynasty in the early sixteenth century when the Spanish executed the line's last legitimate emperor, Atahaulpa, despite receiving a vast ransom in gold and llamas. The mystery surrounding the fate of this gold and the llamas underpins the legend that explains Cusi's presence in the mountains, while the myth of Inti drives the boy's tribal quest. On a deeper level, his journey is fueled by an innate search for self-discovery.

The intricate tapestry of myth, legend, and personal exploration sustains the story's suspense, while Clark's skillful blend of poetry and prose offers a feast for the senses. The poetic dimension is introduced by a wandering minstrel who serenades the stars with his nighttime songs. Cusi's favorite tune evokes the soothing hum of the llamas. The solemnity of worship is captured in Chuto's chants to the Sun. Finally, Cusi finds tranquility in the poignant, poetic vows he makes in the book's concluding chapter, where the rhythmic cadence echoes the harmonious blend of content and mood found in medieval Gregorian chants.

Unraveling the social tapestry woven by Ann Clark in this novel reveals a seamless handling of delicate themes. One potentially contentious thread lies in Titu's abandonment of his newborn, Cusi. Clark presents this fact with impartiality, refraining from passing moral judgment on Titu's actions. While some readers might see Titu's eventual demise as a fitting consequence, Clark nudges us to focus instead on the nurturing bond that blossoms between Cusi and his adoptive father, Chuto. The narrative as a whole becomes an enlightening exploration of the enduring strength found in love and loyalty.

Bierhorst, John. The Mythology of South America. New York: Morrow Junior Books, 1987. This seminal tome of academic exploration provides an all-encompassing journey through the pivotal myths spanning from the lofty heights of the northern Andes to the secluded expanses of the Amazon basin. Adorned with maps and striking black-and-white illustrations, it is a gateway to ancient tales.

Clark, Ann Nolan. "Newbery Award Acceptance." Horn Book 29 (August 1953): 249-257. Within this article, Clark unveils the inspirations and foundational elements that breathe life into her fictional universes.

Massee, May. "Ann Nolan Clark." Horn Book 29 (August 1953): 258-262. In this insightful accompaniment to the Newbery address, Massee crafts a vivid portrait of Clark's life, highlighting the significant experiences that sculpted her literary journey and personal narrative.