Pam Munoz Ryan
Hyperion, 2022
190 pages
Grades 4-6
Fantasy/Adventure
Solimar, the daughter of the king, is given an unexpected task. She is to protect the migrating endangered monarch butterflies. To do this, she must wear a magical shawl, which forces her to prophesies whenever she puts it over her shoulders. This power is connected to the sunlight and must be worn everyday. If the citizens of the land find out about this power, they will surely bombard Solimar with questions, forcing her to abuse her power and causing all kind of chaos. When her father and brother leave the kingdom on official duties, a neighboring ruler attempts a coup d'état by kidnapping the remaining royal household. Solimar escapes and must now develop a plan to warn her father and save the kingdom--all while still protecting the endangered butterflies. Help comes from unexpected places and Solimar must use her wits and courage to get the job done. Does she have what it takes?
Newbery honor winner, Pam Muniz Ryan offers a new tale seeped in magic, culture and courage. With feminist and environmental undertones, the story demonstrates the importance of butterflies, while making the statement that girls can save the day. The author is clearly a butterfly lover and offers factual information about monarchs and their importance and plight at the back of the volume. Solimar is a likable character and readers will root for both her and her companion, Berto, as they stay ahead of the enemy's army and face terrible dangers. The story also shows the importance of friendship and community, as Solimar must work with friends both new and old, including a bewitched talking doll, in order to save the kingdom. The story ends satisfyingly, if a it too neatly, with the plot sewn up and Solimar getting what she desires. The subtitle suggests possibly a continuation of her adventures, but the book stands alone. One complaint is the small print of the text, which may put off young readers, but once they dive into the story they will find much to enjoy.
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