Alexandra Alessandri

Adventure mixes with rich legends to create an engaging read.

Valentina follows her brother and father on one of their family's crazy quests to discover legends, while their mother is away, continuing her studies of a volcano. When an earthquake catches them off guard, the family is separated and left in danger. With her brother at her side, Valentina struggles to rescue her father, but instead, runs into the creatures behind the legends her father has chased for years. These powerful beings are not pleased, but somehow Valentina is going to have to steer through them as she learns to deal with her own emerging abilities...or everyone is doomed.

From the very first page, this read grabs. Valentina's family comes across extremely realistic...maybe a bit quirky, at times, but that makes them that much more likable. The relationship between Valentina and her brother really shines and gives this entire read a nice family vibe. However, this read isn't as much about emotions as it is adventure, which is great because it makes the pages fly by as the reader gets lost in this world.

The messages hit a varied spectrum from battles with oneself to family to environmental issues and more. These weave into the plot well, allowing the tension to take over. The mythical creatures bring various legends to life and broaden readers' horizons. There's even a bit of Spanish mixed in. So, it's a rich read on several ends.

I do hope the author has more adventures for this family planned, since it was a fun read. I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the adventure quite a bit.… (more)

It’s New Year’s Eve at Abuelita’s finca, and Ava struggles to overcome her shyness.

Ava is excited to cook and play with her cousins and to join in family fun on the farm during her visit. Every time she wants to speak up, though, she finds that it’s much harder than she thinks it should be. Ava’s mamá reassures her that “There’s nothing wrong with being shy. When you’re ready, your voice will come out and play,” which gives Ava the confidence she needs to slowly come out of her shell. Colombian New Year’s traditions, such as eating 12 grapes at midnight for 12 months of good luck, are woven into the story for an added holiday experience. Delicious Colombian foods are depicted in joyful illustrations that add even more cultural details. The story’s seamless incorporation of Spanish idioms and phrases lets Spanish-speaking readers hear themselves on the pages and provides support for those interested in learning more. Shyness isn’t portrayed as a negative trait, and Ava is given the space by her family members to find her voice on her own terms. Ava and her family are depicted with shades of brown skin and hair.

This gentle family story lets readers know that shyness is nothing to worry about. (author's note, glossary) (Picture book. 3-8)

-Kirkus Review… (more)