Doña Quixote: Flight of the Witch

Doña Quixote #2

by Rey Terciero, Monica M. Magaña (illustrator)

In this duology finale of the action-packed and hilarious contemporary graphic novel retelling of Don Quixote, modern-day knight and young Texan Lucia must save her town from a coven of shapeshifting witches, all while balancing friends, family, and middle school.

Lucia has become what she’s always hoped to be—a local hero. But between chores and homework, arguments with her parents and best friend, Sandro, and helping her neighbors with her special abilities, she's busier than ever before.

When the townspeople's treasured possessions go missing and owls start flocking around Laredo, Lucia's gut knows that something is wrong . . . if only she had the time to get to the bottom of it. But monsters wait on no one, and there's an evil coven of witches lurking in the shadows, preparing to wreak havoc—whether Lucia’s ready or not. Perfect for fans of Mighty Jack, Zita the Spacegirl, and Amulet.

“Folklore, fun, and adventure at its best.” —Max Brallier, #1 New York Times–bestselling author of The Last Kids on Earth on Doña Rise of the Knight

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Graphic Novels, Retellings, Family, Fiction, Comics

Kindle Edition

Published September 3, 2024

About the author

Rey Terciero is a penname of Rex Ogle.

REX OGLE is an award-winning author and the writer of nearly a hundred children’s books, comics, graphic novels, and memoirs—most notably Free Lunch, which won the ALA/YALSA award for Excellence in Non-Fiction.

Born and raised (mostly) in Texas, he moved to New York City after college to intern at Marvel Comics before moving over to DC Comics, Scholastic, and Little Brown Young Readers. As an editor, he championed over a dozen NY Times Bestsellers and worked on (and often wrote) major brands such as X-Men, Justice League, Star Wars, LEGO, Power Rangers, Transformers, Minecraft, Assassin’s Creed, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Neil Patrick Harris’s Magic Misfits.

Rex has written under a lot of pen names, including Trey King, Honest Lee, and Rey Terciero (a nickname given by his Abuela, being Español for “third king”, which is apt since Rex is Latin for “king”, and he is the third “Rex” in his family).

Now, Rex lives in Los Angeles where he writes in his spare time—that is, when he’s not outdoors hiking with his dog Toby, playing MarioKart with friends, or reading.

Reviews

[Bozhena Levine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, Henry Holt and Co. (BYR), and NetGalley for the advanced electronic review copy of this fabulous book. This is the conclusion of the Doña Quixote duology and oh, what a fun read it had been! Same great characters, more action, more Mexican deities and mythology, and a very important lesson learned by our main character — even a hero needs help, and the family and friends are there to work together and save the day. Overall, a delightful read and great ending to the series. This series is also a great introduction to the classic Don Quixote story.

[Michelle Kenneth - PerfectionistWannabe.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a fan.

While this book is my first in this series, I am going back to order the first one, and to put all future graphic novels in this series on auto-buy.

This middle grade graphic novel hit all the right notes for me. It touched on Central American mythology, while also sharing a bit of Lucia Castillo's culture. It teaches the importance of friendships and keeping your head in check, not letting your ego ruin everything that is good.

I also appreciated the lesson of how we are not alone. It takes a village. We should never be afraid to ask for help when we really need help.

That's just the underlying lessons. Throw in a coven of Lechuza (witches that can shape-shift into owls), as well as a parliament of owls, and we have a very sinister adventure that Lucia, and her friends, must face.

Truth be told, I was a fan by page 2. It won me over that quickly and I was a fan 1/4 of the way in. It was really that good. I enjoyed this adventure. Can't wait to read more.

[Megan Mann · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really like this series! The only thing I didn’t like was how rushed, almost, the ending felt. I was like, oh, now we’re battling, sort of, and then it’s over. I enjoyed it, but wish it had a little bit more!

[RainyDayReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the middle-grade reimagining of the classic story of Don Quixote. The main character, Lucia, is a descendant of the classic character. Don Quioxte's helmet has been passed down through generations and she inherited it in the first book. This story follows Lucia and her best friend (and Pancho equivalent) Sandro as they try to juggle being heroes of the town with typical kid stuff. Lucia in particular is struggling with balancing her school work and questing for townspeople. She believes it is her job and that should be a priority, especially since her grandfather handed down the responsibility to her. Things escalate when mysterious owls begin taking items from people around town. While her family and Sandro encourage her to prioritize being a kid, Lucia continues pushing to her breaking point.

I loved the theme of this iteration which seemed to be asking for help and taking breaks. Lucia is so focused on giving 100% to everything that it causes her to burn out and damage her relationships. She felt like she was the only one who could save and help people. I think that is something that many readers will relate too. Another relatable theme was juggling school and extracurriculars, which is especially relevant for preteens and teens. It felt a bit Spiderman-esque in that way.

The only thing that threw me off a bit was the weird ending “punishment” for the witches. Without giving spoilers, it was just an odd choice to read as an adult reader. However, kids will probably find it funny and follow the reasoning a bit better than an adult reader. I also would have liked to see some more time for Lucia to succeed in being a hero and a student. It was hard sometimes because you feel so overwhelmed and defeated like Lucia. Comments from her teacher, the late nights of studying, and the number of people asking her to help them were challenging to experience because I really felt for her. I know that is probably the point. But I would have liked a bit more at the start or the end of positive interactions with Lucia to help balance it.

I would recommend this book to middle-grade adventure and fantasy readers. Adults may enjoy it too if they appreciate the classic story or enjoy coming-of-age middle-grade books.

(Thanks to the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.)

[TheNextGenLibrarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Dona Quixote MG duology by @thirdrex @monicam_art
🦉
Lucia is having a string of good luck protecting her town from the supernatural, so much so that it’s going to her head. She starts thinking she doesn’t need to work hard in school or ask her best friend, Sandro, for help anymore. Unfortunately this is around the same time that she’ll need more help than ever because a parliament of owls invade their Texas town, stealing people’s personal effects. Lucia has a bad feeling about these owls and when she finds out witches are also involved she’ll need more assistance than ever to keep them from taking over Laredo.
🦉
I am just as obsessed with book 2 as I was with book 1! This graphic novel is everything I want in a middlegrade book It has life lessons, deals with big emotions that our kids are going through, had fantastic artwork and coloring, includes culture and history, plus: Sandro is one of my favorite characters ever. He’s a tween boy who takes ballet and is so sure of himself and who he is. These 2 Don Quixote retellings will forever be ones kids will flock to (get it? Because of the 🦉?!) Thanks @macmillanusa for the ARC. This title releases September 3!

CW: child death (recounted), car accident, theft, violence (all age appropriate)

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

In FLIGHT OF THE WITCH, on the heels of her triumphant victory over a shapeshifting creature to save her Texas town, Lucia now must learn how to manage the expectations that come from being everyone’s hero with the regular responsibilities of a middle schooler. When the townspeople’s prized possessions are being stolen by owls, Lucia takes it upon herself to find out what—or who—is behind the theft and to secure the return of the items. This leads to the discovery a flock of witches seeking revenge on the those who have wronged them. In the process Lucia alienates herself from her best friend and sidekick Sandro. As she encounters challenges combating the new threat to her community on her own, she comes to the realization that she will need to accept help to save her family and friends.

The graphic novel provides a modern take on the traditional Don Quixote tale with a headstrong heroine and plenty of nods to Mexican folklore. The important message of asking for help when needed is naturally woven into the narrative. An action-filled follow-up that brings Lucia’s quest to a satisfying conclusion while introducing readers to the classic epic story of Don Quixote.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sharing an eARC of the book with me.

[Ryn (Crafty_Bookworm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this volume Lucia must learn what it actually is like to live the life of a knight who is still in Middle School. While trying to balance knight duties, schoolwork, friends, and family Lucia is struggling to do it all alone. Help is going to be needed in her newest battle against a coven of witches bent on revenge, but will she ask for it?
I truly enjoyed this graphic novel twist on a classic for kids. While for me it wasn’t quite as strong as the first story in this duology it was still a fantastic and fun read. Lucia’s stubbonness felt a bit to pushed and stereotype of the lone hero which pulled me out as it went on but I understand why it was important to the story. Once Lucia realizes she can ask for help the story took off and I just wanted more once I got the end. Overall, a delightful graphic novel perfect for introducing kids to a well loved classic.
Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for access to this title in exchange for an honest review.

[Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s really exhausting to be the town hero and keep up with your homework. Having demonstrated her bona fedes as someone who can not only see, but also defeat occult demons, monsters and mischief makers in front of everyone. The services of Lucia Castillo are now in great demand, and she’s starting to feel some burnout. Owls have been stealing prize possessions from her classmates and more and more adults. Lucia’s own grandmother has her wedding ring snatched off her finger by these feathered fiends! Meanwhile her grades are slipping, and she has a falling out with her best friend and ally. What can be done to set things right? Find out in Flight of the Witch.

[Ron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucia is acknowledged as the town hero. But in her excitement over that status, she looses track of friends and schoolwork. So when a rash of thefts by owls occur, she tries to do everything herself. Lack of knowledge and planning kept stymieing her efforts. But after a forced stand-down forces her to learn to accept help and plan ahead, Lucia and Sandro manage to organize a last ditch effort to save the town! A nicely done storyline accompanied by colorful artwork that helps set the mood!

Thanks Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the chance to read this title!

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shapeshifting witches, oh my! I loved the action sequences and the bit of mystery/thrill that Lucia has to go on as part of her adventures as Dona Quixote when she wears the helmet/armor of her grandfather's. The helmet gives her access to a mythological world that pulls is Mexican lore to fight against with her friend.

The art is just as vivid in the second as the first, and who doesn't love her sidekick donkey! A visual feast with a mix of humor in accessing the classic tale of Don Quixote.

[Raven Black · Rating 2 out of 5]

As I didn't care for book two as much as book one, this rating of 2 is actually 2.75 The story arc (learning you need friends/help) is not new, but overall the story didn't feel as strong as it could be. Though the ending was interesting, there were a few questions left unanswered. The art is, as before, fun, bright, colorful and clever. For the aged strong 8 and up, this is a good series and great on representation.

[Lisa Davidson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute story with a fun take on the name. Like the original Don Quixote, Lucia thinks she's the one who needs to save everyone, now that her abuelo is gone. Her grades are suffering but she feels alone in her quest and ends up alienating her best friend.
The family and friends were wonderful, the story was fast-paced, and the ending was heartwarming. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

The family, the legends, the friendship and the artwork that I loved from the first one are back! And you add in the lessons that Lucia learns, it really makes this book amazing. This is the right book for so many people, but especially for kids learning to navigate friendship and other responsibilities. This duology is a favorite graphic novel series. Amazing!

[Taryn Allan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this sequel. I think it builds on the themes from the last book and talks about how hard it is to do everything on your own. Sometimes asking for help may be hard, but it doesn't make you any less of a hero. I also really liked that Dona had to learn how to apologize for her behavior.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flight of the Witch (Doña Quixote #2)
by Rey Terciero
A cross cultural story, showing historic Spanish and Mexican traditions. The young heroine is the granddaughter of a heraldic knight modeled after the Spanish knight errant Don Quixote. The story focuses on the ideal that heroes need friends and a community of support. Their villains are based on Mexican gods, and Mythology.

[Sophy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story about a girl with a magical helmet that can allow her to see mythical beings that others can't see. She tries to do everything on her own and thinks it's a weakness until she finds out it's ok to ask for help when you really need it.

[Melanie Gaum · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not quite as good as the first one, but a fun follow-up and conclusion.

ARC from Netgalley.

[Tina Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun tale inspired by the great Don Quixiote legends. There was plenty of action and mythical fun as well as strong messages of how no person is an island and how we find strength in unity.

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love these books! She has a magical helmet and its such a fantastic throwback to the OG DQ.

[Izzy · Rating 3 out of 5]

How'd she become more of a selfish brat after all that happened in the first book??

[Athul Domichen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked this one more than the first. The owl villains were cool and scary.