  | Cece Rios and the desert of souls (Cece Rios) Author: Rivera, Kaela | |
| Price: $17.29 | ||
Summary:
Privately questioning her remote community's superstitions about dangerous powerful spirits in their Devil's Alley home, Cecelia Rios experiments with the forbidden art of brujeria to rescue her kidnapped sister.
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: MG Reading Level: 4.70 Points: 10.0 Quiz: 512712 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (03/01/21)
School Library Journal (00/03/21)
Booklist (+) (02/16/21)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 02/15/2021 *Starred Review* Twelve-year-old Cece Rios has long known that she’s different from the other residents of Tierra del Sol, and that difference couldn’t be made more clear than it is in the contrast between herself and her beloved older sister, Juana. Juana is fierce and courageous, happily taking part in the town’s rituals to protect itself from the terrifying criaturas that have haunted the residents for centuries. On the other hand, Cece is gentle and merciful, and the other residents have looked upon her with suspicion ever since she helped a misunderstood criatura escape their wrath. After a reckless moment leads to Juana’s capture by El Sombrerón, one of the most feared criaturas, Cece becomes determined to bring her home, gathering all her courage to navigate a desert of supernatural wonders—with the help of some surprising new allies who all have secrets of their own. Rivera’s spellbinding debut feels incredibly fresh, offering a thrilling introduction to the world of Mexican American legends while easily weaving Spanish phrases and vocabulary into the vibrant text. Cece immediately feels like a friend, and it’s gratifying to watch her grow in grit while proving again and again that kindness is an enormous asset, not a liability. Enchanted readers will hope for more from Cece and her extraordinary, magical world. - Copyright 2021 Booklist.
School Library Journal - 03/01/2021 Gr 5 Up—Cecelia Rios does the unthinkable by freeing a dark criatura from the grips of her village. Criaturas have long plagued the residents of the Tierra del Sol desert. Forewarned by her Mama, Cece knows that criaturas were creatures born from the dust and the words of the Great Namer, which aim to harm humans. Shadowed by betrayal and shame, Cece deems herself weak, believing the town whispers that water smothered her inner fire. But when her sister Juana is kidnapped by the criatura, El Sombreron, Cece grapples with a decision that rivals her Mama's beliefs. Her powerful choice unearths secrets of her family's past and leads Cece down a forbidden path. Confronted with her fears, Cece forms unexpected alliances while battling a foe unlike any criatura: herself. Set against the Tierra del Sol backdrop, intertwined with rich Mexican folklore and culturally infused language, this is a brilliantly unveiled coming-of-age story not for the faint of heart. Rivera cultivates a valiant heroine unafraid to follow her heart and stand against the norm. With a captivating story line and adversaries lurking between the pages, readers will remain engrossed as fantasy mingles with the real world. The engaging plot unravels with twists and turns, keeping readers on edge even after Cece's revelation. VERDICT Courage, determination, and unwavering love are the foundation of this debut; a much-needed addition to public and school libraries.—Suraya Jairam, Queens P.L., Hollis, NY - Copyright 2021 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
