Solimar

Gr 3-6–Solimar is turning 15, preparing to have her quinceañera and be crowned as princess of San Gregorio. Her older brother, Campeó, is the heir apparent to the kingdom, though he doesn’t wish to be. Meanwhile, her parents, the king and queen, are in danger from the neighboring king, who wishes to take their land. On their land is the magical oyamel forest, known for the migrating monarch butterflies. When Solimar crosses the river to see the butterflies, they magically settle upon her. After she returns home, her rebozo (a scarflike shawl) starts to glisten and Solimar learns she has inherited an unusual power. She is able to see into the near future while wearing the rebozo, making her a target and a risk to the butterflies and those she loves. It’s up to Solimar to single-handedly save the butterflies and the entire kingdom, including her family. But difficulties abound, including a kidnapping and travels down the treacherous Rio Diablo river with her sidekicks Quetzal, Lazaro, an enchanted doll named Zarita, and a young boy named Berto in tow. Solimar’s relationship with her abuela is touching, and the characters are all well developed. The story is rich with vibrant imagery, suspense, and humor.