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3.82 AVERAGE
3.82 AVERAGE
This BEAUTIFUL fantasy standalone enriched with Mexican culture was the perfect cozy April read
4.5 ⭐️ This book is on the 2023 Bluebonnet list and I was only excited to read it because of its author. I’m not much of a fantasy reader these days but this story instantly drew me in. Solimar is a strong female character and showed so much intelligence and bravery. I saw another person described this book as a Mexican fairy tale and I thought that was perfect. Pam Munoz Ryan delivers another powerful story!
Thanks to NetGalley for a free e-Arc of this book! Solimar is about to be crowned a princess, but she really wants to be in a position of actual power. When she is unexpectedly blessed with the ability to see the future, she tries to use this power to save her kingdom. This was not my favorite Pam Munoz Ryan book, but it was enjoyable. It was fast-paced, and I think middle grade readers will enjoy it.
adventurous
inspiring
relaxing
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
While I liked the hook-a young girl is suddenly able to answer questions about the near future- and didn't mind the fairly easy ending, Ryan's well-known talents aren't reflected by a distinctly mediocre book that forgot to add elements that pull in the reader.
In short: nothing cool happened.
In short: nothing cool happened.
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I didn’t love it like I have her other works. Nothing objectionable.
I think this would be a really nice family read. It's under 200 pages, and touches on topics of sexism, environmentalism, government types etc. that older children will pick up on and could discuss, but younger children will just enjoy the story of a princess that has to save her family and her kingdom. Plus, talking doll, pet bird and magic shawl.
Join Solimar on a journey to save her brother and father and her kingdom. Will she ultimately believe in herself enough to succeed?