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Daylan and the River of Secrets
- GenresMiddle GradeFantasy
160 pages, Paperback
Published August 16, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 12, 2024
4 Stars
Written in verse, Daylan and the River of Secrets tells the coming-of-age tale of a twelve-year-old boy named Daylan, who finds himself haunted at night by the memory of once seeing the legendary water spirit, Cihuamichin, while in waking hours, he constantly battles his fear of the water—a place he once loved—while facing pressures within his broken home and at school, where he’s the target of bullying.
Although a very short and quick read, Tello so effortlessly draws the reader in, blending a thoughtful (slightly mystical) tale exploring Mexican folklore, social anxiety, bullying, friendship, parental divorce, and sexual awakenings in the life of one young boy on the cusp of adolescence. I especially appreciated how these themes were touched on and not taken lightly, while still remaining, overall, a very warm, evocative, and poignant story that left me smiling.
Ultimately, this was a lovely middle grade read, with positive cultural characterization, a strong environmental message, and told with a whole lot of heart.
***A special thanks to West 44 Books (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Written in verse, Daylan and the River of Secrets tells the coming-of-age tale of a twelve-year-old boy named Daylan, who finds himself haunted at night by the memory of once seeing the legendary water spirit, Cihuamichin, while in waking hours, he constantly battles his fear of the water—a place he once loved—while facing pressures within his broken home and at school, where he’s the target of bullying.
Although a very short and quick read, Tello so effortlessly draws the reader in, blending a thoughtful (slightly mystical) tale exploring Mexican folklore, social anxiety, bullying, friendship, parental divorce, and sexual awakenings in the life of one young boy on the cusp of adolescence. I especially appreciated how these themes were touched on and not taken lightly, while still remaining, overall, a very warm, evocative, and poignant story that left me smiling.
Ultimately, this was a lovely middle grade read, with positive cultural characterization, a strong environmental message, and told with a whole lot of heart.
***A special thanks to West 44 Books (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2024
A unique novel in verse told through the authentic voice of Daylan, whose many struggles will resonate with readers.
I enjoyed how the author combines magical realism, environmentalism, tradition and culture in this breezy and well-balanced read. Not your conventional mix but it works. The book is also a heartfelt tribute to the author's birthplace, community and history.
Not a fan of the climax as it felt weak and messy, but this was an enjoyable read overall.
Thank you West 44 Books for the Netgalley ARC.
I enjoyed how the author combines magical realism, environmentalism, tradition and culture in this breezy and well-balanced read. Not your conventional mix but it works. The book is also a heartfelt tribute to the author's birthplace, community and history.
Not a fan of the climax as it felt weak and messy, but this was an enjoyable read overall.
Thank you West 44 Books for the Netgalley ARC.
July 23, 2024
I had the opportunity to read this book thanks to NetGalley and I must say that it exceeded my expectations.
Edd Tello transports us to a Mexican town full of legends that are a refuge for the heart.
Transmitting Mexican culture, Daylan and the River of Secrets becomes an enriching story that you will always carry in your heart.
Tuve la oportunidad de leer este libro gracias a NetGalley y debo de decir que superó mis expectativas.
Edd Tello nos transporta a un pueblo mexicano lleno de leyendas que son un refugio para el corazón.
Transmitiendo la cultura mexicana, Daylan y el Río de los Secretos se convierte en una historia enriquecedora que llevarás siempre en tu corazón.
Edd Tello transports us to a Mexican town full of legends that are a refuge for the heart.
Transmitting Mexican culture, Daylan and the River of Secrets becomes an enriching story that you will always carry in your heart.
Tuve la oportunidad de leer este libro gracias a NetGalley y debo de decir que superó mis expectativas.
Edd Tello nos transporta a un pueblo mexicano lleno de leyendas que son un refugio para el corazón.
Transmitiendo la cultura mexicana, Daylan y el Río de los Secretos se convierte en una historia enriquecedora que llevarás siempre en tu corazón.
July 8, 2024
DAYLAN AND THE RIVER OF SECRETS
Three years after his encounter with Cihuamichin, the spirit that protects el Naci river, Daylan is still terrified of swimming. Pressured by his divorced parents expectations and his bullies at school, he reaches his tipping point when his crush and his troblemaker friends start breaking the rules of the river, threatening the stability of the community that surrounds it.
Daylan and the River of Secrets is a fast, enjoyable read that captures the essence of childhood fears, friendships, and personal growth.
The novel delves into Daylan's personal life, exploring his feelings about his parents' divorce, his first crush, his friendships and his hardships dealing with bullying at school. I especially enjoyed Daylan’s compassion, that extended even to the kids that mocked him.
One of the standout elements of the story is the depiction of Cihuamichin, the river spirit. Unlike typical portrayals of supernatural entities as evil, Cihuamichin is a protector of the river and the community, rooted deeply in Mexican folklore. The story beautifully intertwines folklore with a new tale, emphasizing the significance of protecting nature.
Daylan and the River of Secrets is a middle-grade novel that resonates with key themes relevant to young readers. Its focus on friendship, folklore, and personal growth makes it a touching and meaningful read.
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an eARC of this book**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
Three years after his encounter with Cihuamichin, the spirit that protects el Naci river, Daylan is still terrified of swimming. Pressured by his divorced parents expectations and his bullies at school, he reaches his tipping point when his crush and his troblemaker friends start breaking the rules of the river, threatening the stability of the community that surrounds it.
Daylan and the River of Secrets is a fast, enjoyable read that captures the essence of childhood fears, friendships, and personal growth.
The novel delves into Daylan's personal life, exploring his feelings about his parents' divorce, his first crush, his friendships and his hardships dealing with bullying at school. I especially enjoyed Daylan’s compassion, that extended even to the kids that mocked him.
One of the standout elements of the story is the depiction of Cihuamichin, the river spirit. Unlike typical portrayals of supernatural entities as evil, Cihuamichin is a protector of the river and the community, rooted deeply in Mexican folklore. The story beautifully intertwines folklore with a new tale, emphasizing the significance of protecting nature.
Daylan and the River of Secrets is a middle-grade novel that resonates with key themes relevant to young readers. Its focus on friendship, folklore, and personal growth makes it a touching and meaningful read.
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an eARC of this book**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
June 20, 2024
Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
3.75
Told in beautiful verse, Daylan and the River of Secrets by Edd Tello follows Daylan as he navigates nightmares - bullies in the morning, and the Cihuamichin at night. When a new classmate comes along, something stirs within the town, with Daylan facing the crossroads: to face his fears and save his community.
The story is short yet engaging, something that had me engrossed the entire time I was reading it. I haven't read a lot of stories written in verse, but there was a musicality in it that I appreciated. each change in the formatting really set the scene and helped with visualizing the gravity of the situation.
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC!
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
3.75
Told in beautiful verse, Daylan and the River of Secrets by Edd Tello follows Daylan as he navigates nightmares - bullies in the morning, and the Cihuamichin at night. When a new classmate comes along, something stirs within the town, with Daylan facing the crossroads: to face his fears and save his community.
The story is short yet engaging, something that had me engrossed the entire time I was reading it. I haven't read a lot of stories written in verse, but there was a musicality in it that I appreciated. each change in the formatting really set the scene and helped with visualizing the gravity of the situation.
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC!
June 28, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, Rosen Publishing Group, West 44 Books, and Edd Tello for the opportunity to read Daylan and the River of Secrets in exchange for an honest review.
Daylan and the River of Secrets is a Hi-Lo novel-in-verse, making for a quick and fun read. This novel is also available in Spanish!
The story folllows Daylan, or "Day" as he may be called by friends. He used to love swimming, but one day, he sees something while swimming in the El Naci River. He calls her Cihuamichin (a fictional character for this narrative), based on the Nahuatl words "cihuatl" (woman) and "michin" (fish). While one might picture something mermaid-esque, Cihuamichin is like a siren, ready to pull people to their doom...should they anger the Patroness of Water.
At school, others bully Day for his fear of swimming as well as his social anxiety. When a new student arrives, Day finds interst in Eliam. But Eliam joins the main group that bullies Day, so how can he confront his own feelings or even have a conversation with Eliam if that is the case?
When Eliam and the bullies end up finding ways to break Cihuamichin's laws around the El Naci River, Day gathers his best friend, Brissia, to join him on a mission to save the boy he has a crush on, and the bullies (as it is the right thing to do). He is the only one who knows the secrets of the river, making him to only one who has a chance at getting the other boys to stop what they are doing. It's his moment to face his fears, both that of the water, and those of society.
I love Edd Tello's work. After reading Only Pieces, I knew anything he would come up with next would be a fun and amazing read. He always has great style with a nice blend of Hispanic culture and LGBTQ inclusion. This novel was particularly fun because of Daylan's excitement about his favorite class, Spanish Literature, where he got to explore the myth of Cihuamichin. The lore is a fun aspect of the novel, but it also has the connection to its readers through the real experiences around trauma's that cause fear or social anxiety.
This is truly a great diverse novel. While middle grade or young adult students may enjoy it more, I find this work to be something fun for all ages!
Daylan and the River of Secrets is a Hi-Lo novel-in-verse, making for a quick and fun read. This novel is also available in Spanish!
The story folllows Daylan, or "Day" as he may be called by friends. He used to love swimming, but one day, he sees something while swimming in the El Naci River. He calls her Cihuamichin (a fictional character for this narrative), based on the Nahuatl words "cihuatl" (woman) and "michin" (fish). While one might picture something mermaid-esque, Cihuamichin is like a siren, ready to pull people to their doom...should they anger the Patroness of Water.
At school, others bully Day for his fear of swimming as well as his social anxiety. When a new student arrives, Day finds interst in Eliam. But Eliam joins the main group that bullies Day, so how can he confront his own feelings or even have a conversation with Eliam if that is the case?
When Eliam and the bullies end up finding ways to break Cihuamichin's laws around the El Naci River, Day gathers his best friend, Brissia, to join him on a mission to save the boy he has a crush on, and the bullies (as it is the right thing to do). He is the only one who knows the secrets of the river, making him to only one who has a chance at getting the other boys to stop what they are doing. It's his moment to face his fears, both that of the water, and those of society.
I love Edd Tello's work. After reading Only Pieces, I knew anything he would come up with next would be a fun and amazing read. He always has great style with a nice blend of Hispanic culture and LGBTQ inclusion. This novel was particularly fun because of Daylan's excitement about his favorite class, Spanish Literature, where he got to explore the myth of Cihuamichin. The lore is a fun aspect of the novel, but it also has the connection to its readers through the real experiences around trauma's that cause fear or social anxiety.
This is truly a great diverse novel. While middle grade or young adult students may enjoy it more, I find this work to be something fun for all ages!
July 17, 2024
Thank you so much to West 44 Books/ Rosen Publishing and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
Daylan used to love swimming, but he stops after he sees Cihuamichin in the waters afraid of what she’s going to do. As a new kid arrives in school called Eliam, he is forced to figure out his feelings and to beat his fears. Then his classmate Enrique starts breaking her rules and his bravery is tested.
I loved the legend behind this, I didn’t know about this particular legend before, I know of similar but never this one. Learning about the legend of Cihuamichin was so fascinating, about her rules, about how she gets into certain peoples heads, how some believe in her or have seen her and others don’t and haven’t, how they celebrate her, give her offerings, clean up the area. I really enjoyed the legend part of this story.
The characters were the least interesting part of this story for me unfortunately, I didn’t really feel anything for any of them. They were who they were fair enough, but for me I found that no one really had a personality, they all sort of blended together.
I liked this story and think learning about this legend, seeing the people that lived there with this legend and how they treated Cihuamichin was really interesting. It was written really well and it kept me wanting to know what she was going to do, what Daylan’s nightmares were about and what was really going to happen.
Daylan used to love swimming, but he stops after he sees Cihuamichin in the waters afraid of what she’s going to do. As a new kid arrives in school called Eliam, he is forced to figure out his feelings and to beat his fears. Then his classmate Enrique starts breaking her rules and his bravery is tested.
I loved the legend behind this, I didn’t know about this particular legend before, I know of similar but never this one. Learning about the legend of Cihuamichin was so fascinating, about her rules, about how she gets into certain peoples heads, how some believe in her or have seen her and others don’t and haven’t, how they celebrate her, give her offerings, clean up the area. I really enjoyed the legend part of this story.
The characters were the least interesting part of this story for me unfortunately, I didn’t really feel anything for any of them. They were who they were fair enough, but for me I found that no one really had a personality, they all sort of blended together.
I liked this story and think learning about this legend, seeing the people that lived there with this legend and how they treated Cihuamichin was really interesting. It was written really well and it kept me wanting to know what she was going to do, what Daylan’s nightmares were about and what was really going to happen.
June 9, 2024
Thanks West 44 Books and Netgalley for this eARC. Another lovely In Verse novel by Edd Tello! Daylan used to be an avid swimmer but since he saw Cihuamichin, a legendary water woman, in the El Naci river he hasn’t be able to bring himself to go in. Much to the chagrin of his parents and best friend but to the pleasure of his bullies. It’s also difficult because no one believes him about what he saw. Then newcomer Eliam starts at his school and he finds himself drawn to the mysterious new boy. However things get complicated when Eliam becomes friends with his bullies. When his bullies and Eliam break Cihuamichin’s rules they stir up trouble. Daylan has to face the river in order to stop something terrible from happening to Eliam and the others. Can he face his fears? Can he save Eliam? Can he prove that he really saw Cihuamichin? A quick read and a great story! A look at facing your fears and doing brave things. Sweet and heartwarming! A wonderful middle grade in verse fantasy that you don’t want to miss!
August 15, 2024
This was a lovely, quick read. This feels like a short story, written in verse. It accomplishes a lot in a few words: the sense of place in this small town in Mexico, a strong connection to Daylan but also a good sense of the surrounding cast of characters, and the mystery and wonder of nature (and water in particular) via the water spirit Cihuamichin. This is a lovely middle grade book.
I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Rosen Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
I received a digital Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Rosen Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2024
Daylan and the River of Secrets was a quick and enjoyable read that pairs mythology with magical realism and a dash of young, queer romance. I especially appreciated the integration of Spanish language (and the glossary of vocabulary provided at the beginning for non-Spanish speakers). It is clear that Edd Tello very much kept his readers in mind while writing this book. I'm looking forward to introducing Daylan to my students and adding this book to my curriculum on middle grade verse texts. Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced copy.
Read
July 17, 2024I am always looking for books set outside of the United States, and Edd Tello once again delivers with a middle grade in verse that tackles the importance of protecting our waterways (or Cihuamichin will get you!) I anticipate this queer hi-low book becoming a favorite with both English and Spanish readers searching for a short, fast-paced adventure. A must-add for English Language Learner classrooms!
July 18, 2024
I enjoyed the book and the way the author intertwined the themes of Mexican Oral Tradition, Culture, and themes of Queer love and environmental activism. The book speaks to the adversities we must overcome and how the right people and situations may help us. I would love to know what happens to Daylan and Eliam when the novel ends (perhaps it was left ambiguous for a reason). Overall, a wonderful story that great for middle-aged readers!
July 18, 2024
Daylan and the River of Secrets by Edd Tello
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I love how the author blended contemporary with the supernatural, giving this story a magical, mythical feel. Also, I like how it touched on the subject of conservation, and how nature could (and perhaps should!) be able to defend itself against those polluting it.
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I love how the author blended contemporary with the supernatural, giving this story a magical, mythical feel. Also, I like how it touched on the subject of conservation, and how nature could (and perhaps should!) be able to defend itself against those polluting it.
December 13, 2024
No vivo en un lugar remotamente similar, pero si en Tamaulipas, y ciertas cosas me recordaron a mi niñes y adolesencia. Sobre todo el ambiente escolar. Lo que si quisiera es el autor dando una respuesta concreta referente a los intereses amorosos en alguna historia lol.
July 11, 2025
A folktale that involves a legendary water woman, fear of swimming, a new classmate and breaking the rules. Will Daylan find a way to overcome his fears and swim again? Engaging story for middle graders. Love that is available in English and in Spanish!
August 1, 2024
"Daylan and the River of Secrets" by Edd Tello is a beautifully crafted middle grade novel that weaves together the innocence of childhood with the profound depths of self-discovery and bravery. Told in verse, this story follows twelve-year-old Daylan, who is haunted by a past encounter with Cihuamichin, a legendary water woman. Daylan's fear of swimming and social anxiety make him a target for bullying at school. However, his world begins to shift when Eliam, a new kid, joins his class. Through their budding friendship and the challenges they face, Daylan is compelled to confront his fears and insecurities. The verse format of the book is not just a stylistic choice but a medium that amplifies the emotional resonance of Daylan's journey. Each line feels deliberate and poetic, making the reading experience both touching and immersive.
What truly captivated me about this book is its blend of wholesomeness and depth. Tello masterfully incorporates Mexican folklore, bringing a sense of wonder and magic to Daylan's story. The themes of bullying and homophobia are handled with a delicate touch, offering young readers a heartfelt message about acceptance and courage. The river, with its dual capacity for safety and destruction, serves as a powerful metaphor for Daylan's internal struggles. Despite the serious undertones, the novel maintains a cozy and comforting atmosphere, making it a perfect read for middle graders and adults alike. "Daylan and the River of Secrets" is a tender, poignant, and ultimately uplifting tale that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
What truly captivated me about this book is its blend of wholesomeness and depth. Tello masterfully incorporates Mexican folklore, bringing a sense of wonder and magic to Daylan's story. The themes of bullying and homophobia are handled with a delicate touch, offering young readers a heartfelt message about acceptance and courage. The river, with its dual capacity for safety and destruction, serves as a powerful metaphor for Daylan's internal struggles. Despite the serious undertones, the novel maintains a cozy and comforting atmosphere, making it a perfect read for middle graders and adults alike. "Daylan and the River of Secrets" is a tender, poignant, and ultimately uplifting tale that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
July 5, 2024
Aunque no suelo leerlos tan seguido, los libros infantiles son de los que más disfruto de consumir ya que su simpleza ofrece mensajes complejos que aun siendo adultos podemos aplicar.
En el caso de esta lectura, puedo decir que encontré varios elementos que le otorgan un encanto mágico y único, digamos que este libro posee una personalidad única al igual que encantadora.
Desde su protagonista hasta el folclore, logra transmitir la inocencia de un personaje de su edad pero al mismo tiempo se nos permite vislumbrar discursos más complejos.
Como es una novela redactada en verso, su lectura es muy fluida en todo momento y las páginas pasan volando de lo entretenida que es la trama, sin embargo, me hubiese gustado tener más contexto sobre algunos escenarios o pensamientos del protagonista.
Si buscas una historia linda, rápida de leer y con un gran folclore mexicano, definitivamente esta es la opción indicada para ti. En pocas palabras: es un libro muy recomendable.
En el caso de esta lectura, puedo decir que encontré varios elementos que le otorgan un encanto mágico y único, digamos que este libro posee una personalidad única al igual que encantadora.
Desde su protagonista hasta el folclore, logra transmitir la inocencia de un personaje de su edad pero al mismo tiempo se nos permite vislumbrar discursos más complejos.
Como es una novela redactada en verso, su lectura es muy fluida en todo momento y las páginas pasan volando de lo entretenida que es la trama, sin embargo, me hubiese gustado tener más contexto sobre algunos escenarios o pensamientos del protagonista.
Si buscas una historia linda, rápida de leer y con un gran folclore mexicano, definitivamente esta es la opción indicada para ti. En pocas palabras: es un libro muy recomendable.
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