DOÑA QUIXOTE

Lucia Castillo, a descendant of Don Quixote, is back to save her town once again in this sequel to Doña Quixote: Rise of the Knight (2023).

After taking on the knight’s helmet following the passing of her abuelo, Mexican American Lucia was able to stop her town from being destroyed by its monstrous mayor with the help of best friend Sandro. Since then, she’s become a local hero, helping everyone with their magical (and nonmagical) problems. But juggling her duties as a knight with homework and chores proves to be much more difficult than she thought. Abuelo said it was the helmet wearer’s responsibility to protect others on their own; he warned her that it’s a lonely life. But what happens when you can’t do everything by yourself? When owls begin stealing people’s prized possessions, Lucia realizes that something bigger could be afoot. Between failing grades, a coven of evil witches, and arguments with her parents and Sandro, Lucia has more on her plate than ever. As she works to solve the avian mystery, she learns to balance each aspect of her life: relationships, school, and, of course, heroics. The bright illustrations creatively depict Lucia’s exploits, from the magic of her knight’s helmet to memories of Abuelo, which appear in sepia tones. The creative formatting of the panels enhances the story’s engaging nature.

Another fun, magical adventure bolstered by meaningful life lessons.