Oct 31, 2024
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If you're a fan of middle-grade fantasy with a unique cultural
twist, you'll love chatting with author JC Cervantes about her
latest book, "The Daggers of Ire." JC is no stranger to the
"Reading with Your Kids" podcast, and it was a delight to have her
back on the show to dive into the magical world she's created.
"The Daggers of Ire" follows the story of Esme Santiago, a young
witch struggling to harness her powers. When all the witches in her
town, including her own family, are stolen by a witch hunter, Esme
and her best friend Thiago embark on a quest to find the four
original witches and save the day. But with no one having seen
these legendary figures in centuries, it's an impossible task.
As JC explains, crafting this magical system and origin story from
a Latino perspective was both a passion project and a major
challenge. She wanted to shine a light on the rich traditions of
brujería (witchcraft) in Mexico and how it has influenced her own
family's beliefs. From the importance of connecting to a greater
spiritual source to the everyday practice of magic, JC's personal
experiences infuse the story with authenticity and heart.
Beyond the magical elements, JC also delves into the power of
sisterhood and the unique perspective that children can bring to
the table. She encourages young readers to embrace their
creativity, let their imaginations run wild, and not be afraid of a
little fear and judgment along the way.
We also had a chance to speak with Sandy Green. Sandy Green's
new middle-grade novel "The Haunting of Lake Lucy" takes readers on
a spooky adventure at a lakeside resort. When Jake and his twin
sister Evie arrive for summer vacation, they encounter mysterious
stories about the lake's haunted past. Inspired by Sandy's own
family trips, the book follows the siblings as they attempt to
communicate with the ghost through letters in a mailbox, leading to
a thrilling exploration of the haunted house next door. Sandy
explains how she cleverly crafted the story in verse to engage
reluctant readers, using different poetic forms to match the mood
and themes. With a focus on the power of imagination and the
mysteries that lurk beneath the surface, "The Haunting of Lake
Lucy" is a delightfully chilling middle-grade read.
Whether you're a longtime fan of JC's work or discovering her for
the first time, "The Daggers of Ire" is a must-read middle-grade
fantasy that celebrates Latino culture, the strength of friendship,
and the magic of the unknown. Be sure to connect with JC online to
stay up-to-date on her future projects!
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