by Karla Arenas Valenti

MG Fantasy, 2021 by Knopf Books for Young Readers, 320 Pages

What I Didn’t Like:

Some aspects of this one are mildly familiar from other tales. They do usually have a unique spin on them.
The discussion of talents felt odd. It’s relatable but it’s also inaccurate. Clearly Clara HAS a talent for drawing that influences the plot, but we never see her realize that. Also, it is mentioned that Esteban has a talent but that doesn’t drive the plot. It just felt odd including it with no reference back to it.
The story doesn’t have a happily-ever-after fairy tale ending. Actually, the story was a bit darker than I was expecting. There are dark aspects in the middle of the story and then throughout the ending. There’d be a lot to unpack here with a middle grade reader.

Beautiful opening chapter! The imagery, the subtle details you tell you so much about the characters and the town, and the small tug of promise for something big to come. This is a practically perfect opener!
The illustrations are BEAUTIFUL and really add to the story.
I loved the inclusion of so many real places of inspiration from so many tales. They all come together nicely and the note from the author at the end provides all that material for anyone interested.
Great focus on free will vs fate throughout the story. It felt a little deep for a middle grade book but would be an interesting opener for the right reader/group.

Fans of fairy tale style stories may love this one! It is rooted in some traditional Mexican tales but, as a warning, it is dark.