Written by Kaela Rivera
Cece Rios is about a girl on a journey, doing what is necessary to save her sister at all costs, all while discovering that her weaknesses are actually strengths. In her efforts to show everyone she can become a bruja (a witch), she becomes something different, and better, and meaningful!
I would definitely recommend this book to students with a Hispanic heritage or those who are interested in learning more about this heritage. It was refreshing to read about the traditions, food, Spanish words, culture, and even old wives tales that I was familiar with myself being a member of the Latinx community. I loved that the lead was a young girl that grows up through the adversity presented to her in her community and family. I’m excited for young Latinas to get their hands on this book and be able to see themselves as a lead character struggling through life situations specific to Hispanic culture. This is a great coming of age book that can be reflected to all young people coming into their own.I was also pleasantly surprised to find a glossary of the Spanish words used throughout the book. So helpful!
I would recommend this book because the story is about finding your strength as a young woman. I love that! It’s something just beginning to be celebrated and this book is great at illustrating that. This book would be a wonderful addition to any library.Reviewed by Tanya Hancuff, Media Clerk, Diamond Ridge Elementary School Library
Review shared in November 2021
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: 4th-7th Grade
Author Website: www.kaelarivera.com
Cece Rios and the Desert of Souls
Written by Kaela Rivera
Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers
334 pages
Release Date: April 13, 2021
ISBN: 9780062947550
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
