Scan barcode
A review by tessa_talks_books
Reclaim the Stars: 17 Tales Across Realms & Space by Zoraida Córdova
4.0
Reclaim the Stars is a book containing seventeen Science Fiction and Fantasy short stories by Latinx authors representing Latin America diaspora and includes stories full of sexual diversity, Latinx culture, lore, and unique magic systems. I enjoyed the fantasy stories a bit more than the science fiction ones, but that might be because I love magic systems, especially ones that are unique to me.
I noted three standouts, in particular, that left me wanting an entire novel based in the fictional world: Color-Coded by Maya Montayne, Rogue Enchantments by Isabel Ibañez, and Tame the Wicked Night by Zoraida Córdova (who is the editor of this anthology). The magic system in Color-Coded is a world where the hair of females changes color when they become of age (usually around 16). That color represents their particular magic, which also develops at that point. Rogue Enchantments reminded me, in minimal parts, of the movie Encanto, which I adored, and the magic system is very individualized and seems to rely on encantos (or spells/charms). Lastly, Tamed the Wicked Night reminded me (and perhaps is) of a retelling of a folklore story with gods and goddesses and a love-conquers-all theme.
Just as these three were standouts for me, the wide range of tales truly has something for everyone, such as space battles, different reflections on death and the meaning of life, following your path, and even a few reflections on environmental concerns. If this appeals to you, then this collection is one you won't want to miss.
I noted three standouts, in particular, that left me wanting an entire novel based in the fictional world: Color-Coded by Maya Montayne, Rogue Enchantments by Isabel Ibañez, and Tame the Wicked Night by Zoraida Córdova (who is the editor of this anthology). The magic system in Color-Coded is a world where the hair of females changes color when they become of age (usually around 16). That color represents their particular magic, which also develops at that point. Rogue Enchantments reminded me, in minimal parts, of the movie Encanto, which I adored, and the magic system is very individualized and seems to rely on encantos (or spells/charms). Lastly, Tamed the Wicked Night reminded me (and perhaps is) of a retelling of a folklore story with gods and goddesses and a love-conquers-all theme.
Just as these three were standouts for me, the wide range of tales truly has something for everyone, such as space battles, different reflections on death and the meaning of life, following your path, and even a few reflections on environmental concerns. If this appeals to you, then this collection is one you won't want to miss.