Gods and Demons

by Selenia Paz

Overview

Miguel did not think he would be returning to Mexico so soon, but when El Charro appears and asks for his help in finding out who is behind the darkness that appears to be spreading, Miguel agrees. La Llorona, searching for the same truth, enlists the help of Natalia, who wants to guarantee the safety of her brother and all children like him. As they travel their separate but similar paths, the legends they come across help them to understand that there may be other forces at play—some more powerful and ancient than they could have imagined.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781946202949
Publisher:	Snowy Wings Publishing
Publication date:	10/30/2018
Series:	Leyendas , #2
Pages:	276
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.75(d)
Age Range:	8 - 12 Years

Editorial Reviews

02/01/2019

Gr 4–6—Figures of Mexican folklore team up with two steadfast friends to fight an emergent danger threatening the mortal world. The first installment in this middle grade fantasy series begins with two tragedies—the sudden death of Miguel's beloved abuelo, whose Mexican ranch he is visiting during summer vacation and the disappearance of his friend Natalia's younger brother. Natalia is certain that a legendary figure, La Llorona, is to blame for the disappearance, a suspicion based on the chilling howls she heard before Benjamin went missing. Although both children have returned to their Texas homes, Natalia convinces a skeptical Miguel to accompany her back to Mexico and aid her search. Once there, they encounter a cast of mythic beings, some of whom upend the stories behind their origin and become allies, while others prove worthy of ill repute. The second title focuses on seeking answers to who or what is behind Benjamin's abduction and many similar cases occurring throughout Mexico. Suspense mounts as the friends come to realize that the sinister forces may be far beyond what they, and even their powerful friends, can handle. Each volume features an accompanying glossary for translations and explanations of creatures and customs mentioned; a pronunciation guide could be useful for those who wish to tackle some of the more challenging Nahuatl words. A steady pace and pleasantly unexpected characterization of demons and specters will pull readers along with interest. VERDICT Recommended where there are fans of the growing genre of modern mythical adaptations.—Jessica Agudelo, New York Public Library

School Library Journal