Reviews

Solimar : the Sword of the Monarchs by Pam Muñoz Ryan

cherylzzzz's review

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4.0

3.5

annalisenak97's review

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3.0

This was a sweet little book with a lot of fun fantasy and magic in it! The pacing was a bit strange to me, but I loved the setting, and Solimar's gift was so fascinating.

thea_d_brown's review

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4.0

In the first few pages, I could tell that this book was a bit more fantastical than Ryan's other book I read. This often is a turn-off for me but not this time! I liked it hands down, and can't wait to share it with my sister.

ngreader's review

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3.0

3.5 stars
I actually enjoyed this far more than I thought I would when I aged down the reader. Reading a book about a 14-near 15 year old protagonist that read more like a 10 - 11 year old person was annoying, but I get that Ryan wanted to latch onto the magic of a quince and its symbolism. PLUS, I'm a sucker for monarchs - I mean, it's the classic symbol of Mexican immigrants. How can you not love it?
However, if readers are wanting a book starring monarchs, adventurous young diverse girls and a grand mission, I would recommend "Little Monarchs" over this one.

thenextgenlibrarian's review

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4.0

A Mexican heroine for us to love.

magicalbooks's review

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5.0

(4.5)

ellbo_oks333's review

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3.0

Story was great and fast-paced, I just wish that there was more world-building involved. For a story about a magical rebozo, the world didn't seem that magical.

jillccox's review

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4.0

Lovely family read aloud with lots of action and adventure. Themes of leadership, family, and stewardship of nature.

thenextgenlib's review

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4.0

A Mexican heroine for us to love.

jesscinco's review

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4.0

Solimar is a Mexican princess just about to celebrate her quinceanera. She struggles to follow the rules and fit into the role society expects her to fill. Her bravery is put to the test when a threat emerges to her kingdom, family, and beloved Monarch butterflies. She must go on an action-packed adventure to save everything she holds dear.
This is a solid middle-grade fantasy with plenty of adventure. The elements inspired by Mexican culture are integrated throughout the story and gives the setting depth. I’d recommend this for a middle school reader looking for a stand-alone fantasy story with lots of action.

*Special thanks to NetGalley and Disney-Hyperion for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.