* "A beautiful ode to Puerto Rican history...Santiago's writing sparkles, even as it draws upon hard realities that Puerto Ricans can face in their everyday lives and sense of cultural identity. Filled with arresting prose and historical stories, this novel brings Puerto Rican history into the present, mixing in realistic themes to which most readers will relate." Booklist, starred review
* "Readers will cheer for the bold, resourceful protagonist as she uses her newfound power to bring everyone she cares about together. . .Mayle's evocative black-and-white art and interstitial chapters centering Ty's ancestors through the centuries round out the contemporary storyline . . . Deeply moving, beautifully written, and inspiring." Kirkus Reviews, starred review
"An engaging novel for younger teens that centers around a relatable heroine and a fascinating history." School Library Journal
"Mayle's elegant b&w art appears throughout and historical interstitials center Ty's forebears as they endured harrowing events such as genocide and colonization. Via evocative third-person prose, Santiago proudly showcases Taíno culture in this empowering debut that is at once educational, realistic, and speculative." Publishers Weekly
Best Books 2023 - Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Books of the Year Winner 2024 - Bank Street College of Education Maine Student Book Award Longlist 2024 - Maine Library Association Massachusetts Book Award Longlist 2024 - Massachusetts Center for the Book RISE: A Feminist Book Project Booklist Winner 2024 - American Library Association (ALA)