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Solimar: The Sword of the Monarchs
Middle-grade fans of Pam Muñoz Ryan’s Esperanza Rising, will find a new Mexican heroine to love in Solimar and a fresh, magical story!
On the brink of her Quinceañera, and her official coronation, Solimar visits the oyamel forest to sit among the monarch butterflies. There, the sun pierces through a sword-shaped crevice in a boulder, which shines on her and sends the butterflies humming and swirling around her.
After the magical frenzy, she realizes she's been given a gift—and a burden: she can predict the near future! She has also become a protector of the young and weak butterflies. This alone would be a huge responsibility, but tragedy strikes when a neighboring king invades while her father and brother and many others are away. The remaining villagers are taken hostage—all except Solimar.
Can this princess-to-be save her family, the kingdom, and the future of the monarch butterflies from a greedy and dangerous king?
Written for ages 8 to 12 by the Newbery Honor Medal winner of the highly acclaimed novel Echo.
On the brink of her Quinceañera, and her official coronation, Solimar visits the oyamel forest to sit among the monarch butterflies. There, the sun pierces through a sword-shaped crevice in a boulder, which shines on her and sends the butterflies humming and swirling around her.
After the magical frenzy, she realizes she's been given a gift—and a burden: she can predict the near future! She has also become a protector of the young and weak butterflies. This alone would be a huge responsibility, but tragedy strikes when a neighboring king invades while her father and brother and many others are away. The remaining villagers are taken hostage—all except Solimar.
Can this princess-to-be save her family, the kingdom, and the future of the monarch butterflies from a greedy and dangerous king?
Written for ages 8 to 12 by the Newbery Honor Medal winner of the highly acclaimed novel Echo.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2022
109 people are currently reading
1783 people want to read
About the author
Pam Muñoz Ryan
81 books1,660 followersPam Muñoz Ryan is the author of the New York Times Best Seller, ECHO, a 2016 Newbery Honor Book, and winner of the Kirkus Prize. She has written over forty books for young people—picture books, early readers, and middle grade and young adult novels. She the author recipient of the NEA's Human and Civil Rights Award, the Virginia Hamilton Literary Award, the Willa Cather Award, the Pura Belpré medal, the PEN USA award, and many others. Her novels include Esperanza Rising, Riding Freedom, Becoming Naomi León, Paint the Wind, The Dreamer, and Echo. She was born and raised in Bakersfield, California, holds a bachelor's and master's degree from San Diego State University and lives in north San Diego county with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
January 30, 2022
5 stars!!!
OMG THIS WAS RELEVANT, SPLENDOROUS, COLORFUL, RADIANT, AND PERFECT IN EVERY POSSIBLE WAY!
THIS BOOK SHOULDBE A MOVIE!
I cannot recommend this a celebration of culture and feast of imagery enough to readers of any age. It is an absolute "MUST READ" for kids, especially girls, but many adults will enjoy this children/MG book just the same, or even more! Because... the universal messages in this book are so profound!
This book is just a celebration of everything that is wonderful in life: culture, tradition, ancestry, family ties, friendship, beliefs, values, identity, devotion, responsibility, sacrifice, bravery, girlhood and womanhood.
The audiobook, with its different voices and Hispanic cadences, was such a pleasure.
Solimar is just such precious role models for girls, especially Hispanic girls. She is smart, driven, has very strong opinions and palpable dreams and goals for her future but is not self-centered and really tries hard to balance all that with a sense of responsibility and devotion to her family and her kingdom, She
Her relationships with her families and friends are just adorable. I especially loved her relationship with her grandma, through which we get to experience a good deal of the magic system of the history.
The way the culture was weaved with the magic and mythology was one of my favorite aspects of the book: traditional magic and medicine, curanderism, shamanism, herbalism, all all centered around the forest and the monarch butterflies. So imaginative and a feast of imagery!
The enthralling story telling and wonderful writing make the entire book is a feast of imagery and celebration of culture! The descriptions of the kingdom and its inhabitants, their colorful outfits, the forest around, village, the market, the food, the cooking, the preparations for Solimar's coronation and her quinceañera. EVERYHTING!
And it is not all cute unicorns and rainbows! There is intrigue, politics, and tons of action. So cinematographic! I really wish this book was made into a movie!
Then last but not least... The representation! It is such a gift to the world. This is a great book to honor, celebrate and learn about Mexican (and Latin-American in general) culture and mythology.
You would enjoy this book if you like multicultural tales with striking imagery and imaginative magic system and mythology with uplifting relevant messages such as Like Water for Chocolate, The Astonishing Color of After, Bruja Born and The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina.
OMG THIS WAS RELEVANT, SPLENDOROUS, COLORFUL, RADIANT, AND PERFECT IN EVERY POSSIBLE WAY!
THIS BOOK SHOULDBE A MOVIE!
I cannot recommend this a celebration of culture and feast of imagery enough to readers of any age. It is an absolute "MUST READ" for kids, especially girls, but many adults will enjoy this children/MG book just the same, or even more! Because... the universal messages in this book are so profound!
This book is just a celebration of everything that is wonderful in life: culture, tradition, ancestry, family ties, friendship, beliefs, values, identity, devotion, responsibility, sacrifice, bravery, girlhood and womanhood.
The audiobook, with its different voices and Hispanic cadences, was such a pleasure.
Solimar is just such precious role models for girls, especially Hispanic girls. She is smart, driven, has very strong opinions and palpable dreams and goals for her future but is not self-centered and really tries hard to balance all that with a sense of responsibility and devotion to her family and her kingdom, She
Her relationships with her families and friends are just adorable. I especially loved her relationship with her grandma, through which we get to experience a good deal of the magic system of the history.
The way the culture was weaved with the magic and mythology was one of my favorite aspects of the book: traditional magic and medicine, curanderism, shamanism, herbalism, all all centered around the forest and the monarch butterflies. So imaginative and a feast of imagery!
The enthralling story telling and wonderful writing make the entire book is a feast of imagery and celebration of culture! The descriptions of the kingdom and its inhabitants, their colorful outfits, the forest around, village, the market, the food, the cooking, the preparations for Solimar's coronation and her quinceañera. EVERYHTING!
And it is not all cute unicorns and rainbows! There is intrigue, politics, and tons of action. So cinematographic! I really wish this book was made into a movie!
Then last but not least... The representation! It is such a gift to the world. This is a great book to honor, celebrate and learn about Mexican (and Latin-American in general) culture and mythology.
You would enjoy this book if you like multicultural tales with striking imagery and imaginative magic system and mythology with uplifting relevant messages such as Like Water for Chocolate, The Astonishing Color of After, Bruja Born and The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina.
May 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this fairytale like story. At the beginning princess Solimar sneaks into a butterfly forrest and receives a magical gift. This gift allows her to tell the future, but it has limitations. It also puts her and her kingdom in a bit of danger. Solimar heads out on an adventure to ultimately save the kingdom. I thought it was a fast paced and lovely story. I did think that Solimar read a bit younger than she was supposed to be and I would have liked more descriptions of this Mexican inspired fantasy world, but overall it was a delightful read.
February 6, 2022
Solimar is soon to have her quinceañera, once her father and elder brother return from their annual expedition to Puerto Rivera. Solimar also has a secret—when marvelling arrives the annual arrival of monarch butterflies to their land, she happened to gain an unusual, and temporary power—she can predict with great accuracy, what will happen in the short-term future.
This is both fun, and a little worrisome, and has serious implications for the monarch butterflies.
No sooner has her father and brother left when aggressive King Aveno invades, putting everyone in Solimar’s home under arrest, with Solimar barely escaping in time. She decides she needs to get to her father to let him know of the treachery. Her father is several days journey away, and the path there is treacherous, not only because of the terrain, but King Aveno's soldiers dog her steps.
Solimar is a wonderful character, sweet, kind, fair-minded and committed to helping her people. She also proves to be determined and brave, when she and her new friend Berto travel days together on the dangerous journey to Puerto Rivera.
Pam Muñoz Ryan has written an adventure story with a wonderful main character, who despite her fears, persists to save her family and her people. It’s a story about kindness and persistence and left me feeling happy.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Disney Publishing Worldwide for this ARC in exchange for my review.
This is both fun, and a little worrisome, and has serious implications for the monarch butterflies.
No sooner has her father and brother left when aggressive King Aveno invades, putting everyone in Solimar’s home under arrest, with Solimar barely escaping in time. She decides she needs to get to her father to let him know of the treachery. Her father is several days journey away, and the path there is treacherous, not only because of the terrain, but King Aveno's soldiers dog her steps.
Solimar is a wonderful character, sweet, kind, fair-minded and committed to helping her people. She also proves to be determined and brave, when she and her new friend Berto travel days together on the dangerous journey to Puerto Rivera.
Pam Muñoz Ryan has written an adventure story with a wonderful main character, who despite her fears, persists to save her family and her people. It’s a story about kindness and persistence and left me feeling happy.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Disney Publishing Worldwide for this ARC in exchange for my review.
March 10, 2024
Solimar: The Sword of the Monarchs is set in the fictional kingdom of San Gregorio, ancient Mexico. *Spoiler alert* Solimar visits the Oyamel Forest where she is chosen as protector of the weak butterflies and is given a special gift. Her beautiful and magical “rebozo” allows her to predict future events. Throughout the story, Solimar, her family, and friends face many dangerous situations. Solimar’s courage, perseverance and strength help her save the Kingdom, the Oyamel Forest, and San Gregorio’s future. Pam Muñoz Ryan used cultural elements from Mexico, a band of heroes, magical beings (Zarita), and a talking bird (Lázaro) to create this mystical story. The story has a well-paced narrative and suspenseful/humorous moments. Classroom connections: Students may participate in reflective writing assignments and engage in rich classroom discussions. Since Solimar has a special bond with her grandmother, they can write about their relationship with their grandmother(s) and what does it mean to trust someone implicitly? They may also research monarchs, their habitats, and the habitats of other pollinators. I loved this book and highly recommend it to students in grades 4-7.
*2023-2024 Texas Bluebonnet Award Nominee
*Ages: 8-12/Grades: 4 - 7
Themes: Mexican culture, identity, family traditions-heritage, friendship, loyalty, gender equality
*2023-2024 Texas Bluebonnet Award Nominee
*Ages: 8-12/Grades: 4 - 7
Themes: Mexican culture, identity, family traditions-heritage, friendship, loyalty, gender equality
October 19, 2025
Solimar: The Sword of Monarchs is a cute middle grade read interweaving the true annual migration of monarch butterflies and rich latinx culture with the fantastic. Fans of Candice Yamnitz’s novel Unbetrothed and/or the movies Encanto and Brave will enjoy Solimar’s journey to save both monarch butterflies and her kingdom.
Nearing her joint quniceañera and coronation as princess, Solimar is nearly 15, However, she often reads more as 11-12 in her demeanor. Her new friend, Berto, also reads younger than stated. But I do like his character very much—reminds me a lot of Monkey D. Luffy from One Piece (except when he says his catch phrase, “I can fix that,” which makes me think of Sam and Kissing Kate from Holes).
Despite seeming to act younger in some regards than nearly 15, Solimar encapsulates bravery and is a courageous heroine, moving forward even when afraid. Along with themes of determination, the author includes messages of gender equality, family values, and the power of friendship. Middle grade readers will appreciate the culture nods to Mexico and Guatemala as well as the threads of magic—I can see this book being the start of a love for royal narratives with political intrigue and magic for many young readers!
Solimar has a bird companion, Lãzaro. He, along with the friendship of an enchanted doll, makes this very Disney-esque. I would happily watch a movie version of this book. With this book being published by Disney Hyperion, perhaps Solimar will be an official Disney Princess one day!
Nearing her joint quniceañera and coronation as princess, Solimar is nearly 15, However, she often reads more as 11-12 in her demeanor. Her new friend, Berto, also reads younger than stated. But I do like his character very much—reminds me a lot of Monkey D. Luffy from One Piece (except when he says his catch phrase, “I can fix that,” which makes me think of Sam and Kissing Kate from Holes).
Despite seeming to act younger in some regards than nearly 15, Solimar encapsulates bravery and is a courageous heroine, moving forward even when afraid. Along with themes of determination, the author includes messages of gender equality, family values, and the power of friendship. Middle grade readers will appreciate the culture nods to Mexico and Guatemala as well as the threads of magic—I can see this book being the start of a love for royal narratives with political intrigue and magic for many young readers!
Solimar has a bird companion, Lãzaro. He, along with the friendship of an enchanted doll, makes this very Disney-esque. I would happily watch a movie version of this book. With this book being published by Disney Hyperion, perhaps Solimar will be an official Disney Princess one day!
February 2, 2022
Feb 1 - This book is now available!
This novella was thin but filled with deep themes. The story stayed short and focused on the themes and magical elements more than the character development or world building which left it with the feeling of a fairy tale.
Set in Mexico, the story focuses princess Solimar. While visiting a forbidden area of the forest, Solimar's stoll is magically infused with butterflies and she is given a special gift. She is now able to predict the near future, and does so uncontrollably anytime someone asks her a question. Meanwhile, it is unveiled that a neighboring king has plans to take over her father's kingdom and takes everyone in the castle hostage except Solimar.
Through the help of the local magic worker, an animated doll, her pet bird, and a new found friend, Solimar works to stop the plot of the evil king. There was a lot of action and adventure that makes this a fast-paced, engaging read. It would be perfect for reluctant readers who want to be kept on the edges of their seats.
I would have liked to see more world building or feel like I 'knew' the characters better. The magical elements were also confusing and off-putting at times. Overall, though, this was a valuable thematic story that I would recommend.
This novella was thin but filled with deep themes. The story stayed short and focused on the themes and magical elements more than the character development or world building which left it with the feeling of a fairy tale.
Set in Mexico, the story focuses princess Solimar. While visiting a forbidden area of the forest, Solimar's stoll is magically infused with butterflies and she is given a special gift. She is now able to predict the near future, and does so uncontrollably anytime someone asks her a question. Meanwhile, it is unveiled that a neighboring king has plans to take over her father's kingdom and takes everyone in the castle hostage except Solimar.
Through the help of the local magic worker, an animated doll, her pet bird, and a new found friend, Solimar works to stop the plot of the evil king. There was a lot of action and adventure that makes this a fast-paced, engaging read. It would be perfect for reluctant readers who want to be kept on the edges of their seats.
I would have liked to see more world building or feel like I 'knew' the characters better. The magical elements were also confusing and off-putting at times. Overall, though, this was a valuable thematic story that I would recommend.
April 5, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
I really liked this story. Pam Munoz Ryan does a great job with the storytelling & characters you want to root for. I just felt like this could have been longer & developed more.
I really liked this story. Pam Munoz Ryan does a great job with the storytelling & characters you want to root for. I just felt like this could have been longer & developed more.
May 11, 2022
After visiting a forest of monarch butterflies, future Princess Solimar is gifted with the ability to see the near future and finds she has also been anointed as protector of the butterflies themselves. Can she use her newfound gifts to help save her kingdom?
March 3, 2023
To my surprise I really enjoyed Solimar.
It's a great little book about a young girl getting ready to celebrate her quinceañera and also find the way to save her family and home. One of my favorite parts in the book is the shoe ceremony that take place in quinceañeras. It's a lovely tradition.
It's a great little book about a young girl getting ready to celebrate her quinceañera and also find the way to save her family and home. One of my favorite parts in the book is the shoe ceremony that take place in quinceañeras. It's a lovely tradition.
January 4, 2022
3.5 stars
In this creative novel that includes elements of fantasy, adventure, and light gender-specific commentary, readers get another solid middle grade entry from Ryan.
The titular character is a young princess who is just about to celebrate her quince with her family and who struggles with following the rules at times. This latter element helps her get into an unusual but exciting situation: encountering butterfly-related magic! In an effort to get a handle on her role with these butterflies, Solimar enlists the help of her awesome abuela and her abuela's curandera buddy (who gives some kinder-side-of-Baba-Yaga vibes for a number of reasons). Along with these mentors, Solimar gets assistance from two amazing sidekicks: her beautiful bird (pictured on the novel's cover) and a good natured but still frightening little talking doll (because, frankly, a talking doll is always terrifying). These four characters - the two mentors and two sidekicks - are the highlight of this novel. Their dialogue, antics, and general contributions are fun to follow, and I wish readers were able to see much more of them throughout.
Along with wanting to see more from the aforementioned characters, I wanted a bit more of a faster pace. Interestingly, when Solimar is close to home, her experiences are more engaging. The more traditional adventure aspects that all take place away from home are where, for me, the excitement and development unfortunately slowed.
I've read a lot of Ryan's works and have taught them over the years, and while this one isn't my favorite, it'll still get honorable mentions from me.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Disney-Hyperion for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
In this creative novel that includes elements of fantasy, adventure, and light gender-specific commentary, readers get another solid middle grade entry from Ryan.
The titular character is a young princess who is just about to celebrate her quince with her family and who struggles with following the rules at times. This latter element helps her get into an unusual but exciting situation: encountering butterfly-related magic! In an effort to get a handle on her role with these butterflies, Solimar enlists the help of her awesome abuela and her abuela's curandera buddy (who gives some kinder-side-of-Baba-Yaga vibes for a number of reasons). Along with these mentors, Solimar gets assistance from two amazing sidekicks: her beautiful bird (pictured on the novel's cover) and a good natured but still frightening little talking doll (because, frankly, a talking doll is always terrifying). These four characters - the two mentors and two sidekicks - are the highlight of this novel. Their dialogue, antics, and general contributions are fun to follow, and I wish readers were able to see much more of them throughout.
Along with wanting to see more from the aforementioned characters, I wanted a bit more of a faster pace. Interestingly, when Solimar is close to home, her experiences are more engaging. The more traditional adventure aspects that all take place away from home are where, for me, the excitement and development unfortunately slowed.
I've read a lot of Ryan's works and have taught them over the years, and while this one isn't my favorite, it'll still get honorable mentions from me.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Disney-Hyperion for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
August 4, 2022
This one was a sweet story... it just didn't appeal to me personally. One of the things I liked best about it was that it had lovely family relationships and dynamics, not something a lot of Disney stories tend to have. The descriptions were lush, enough that I could clearly picture the story's setting as I read, and the magic rebozo was really intriguing!
It's something that I would freely let my children read— the one drawback that might bother some people was the inclusion of magic as a theme, though it was honestly light inclusion as a plot device, not something that was encouraging sorcery/dark magic. I did like it... just not as much as other things I've read recently.
However, the ending felt... a little rushed, maybe? It left something to be desired that I can't quite place. The blatant spelling mistakes that the copy editors left in (the one I can remember at the moment was "lightening", as in, to grow lighter, instead of "lightning", what they *actually* meant, the natural phenomenon wherein electricity jumps from sky to earth...) really threw me for a loop, and while it was a nice book, I'm not sure why it's as popular as it seems to be; it's not Ms. Ryan's best work. However, if you're looking for something new to give the kiddos to read, especially ones that show a different culture, this is definitely something you should check out!
It's something that I would freely let my children read— the one drawback that might bother some people was the inclusion of magic as a theme, though it was honestly light inclusion as a plot device, not something that was encouraging sorcery/dark magic. I did like it... just not as much as other things I've read recently.
However, the ending felt... a little rushed, maybe? It left something to be desired that I can't quite place. The blatant spelling mistakes that the copy editors left in (the one I can remember at the moment was "lightening", as in, to grow lighter, instead of "lightning", what they *actually* meant, the natural phenomenon wherein electricity jumps from sky to earth...) really threw me for a loop, and while it was a nice book, I'm not sure why it's as popular as it seems to be; it's not Ms. Ryan's best work. However, if you're looking for something new to give the kiddos to read, especially ones that show a different culture, this is definitely something you should check out!
March 24, 2022
This book held so much promise for me. I love how it started--a young woman about to have her quinceanera. A young woman who wants to be ruler of her family's kingdom one day but she cannot--due to her being a woman. A young woman who finds herself being the protector of butterflies and must ensure their safety, and her family's safety, from those who do not value the land.
But then, I just got bored. Solimar's journey to find her father and brother on the Coast (so they can help defeat the evil jerk who betrayed them).....it read like a Gary Paulsen adventure novel. (Very similar to Northwind that I read earlier). Is that bad? Not necessarily.
I have grown to be enthralled by Pam Munoz Ryan's writing. She writes lyrically and descriptively. This time, I felt it lacking. Which is a shame! Especially because we have a diverse character and an interesting backdrop. The delivery is just missing.
But then, I just got bored. Solimar's journey to find her father and brother on the Coast (so they can help defeat the evil jerk who betrayed them).....it read like a Gary Paulsen adventure novel. (Very similar to Northwind that I read earlier). Is that bad? Not necessarily.
I have grown to be enthralled by Pam Munoz Ryan's writing. She writes lyrically and descriptively. This time, I felt it lacking. Which is a shame! Especially because we have a diverse character and an interesting backdrop. The delivery is just missing.
March 30, 2022
I absolutely enjoyed this coming of age, middle grade fantasy by Pam Munoz Ryan. Solimar is a strong and natural born leader as she and her little entourage- a young boy, her pet bird and an enchanted doll try to save the monarch butterflies and her kingdom from an evil king.
This book was full of magic and adventure and I smiled through every moment of it. Definitely a feel good book for middle school age kids.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Disney Publishing Worldwide for this arc in exchange for my review.
This book was full of magic and adventure and I smiled through every moment of it. Definitely a feel good book for middle school age kids.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Disney Publishing Worldwide for this arc in exchange for my review.
Read
March 4, 2022Trigger & Content Warnings:
Kidnapping
Tornado
Kidnapping
Tornado
January 18, 2022
A fantasy story with a plucky heroine and beautiful writing for middle-grade readers.
Solimar is almost 15, and on her Quinceañera, she will also be crowned princess of the kingdom. Before that happens, however, tragedy strikes. Solimar's kingdom is invaded when her father and brother are away, and the rest of her family is taken hostage. The invaders have also stumbled upon Solimar's magical rebozo, which allows her to see into the future and will also, hopefully, save the monarch butterflies who use the oyamel forests in their kingdom as a stopping point on their yearly migration.
Solimar is a character with a strong personal mandate of doing the right thing. She cares for her family, the people and the animals in her kingdom, and wishes that her father would change his mind about some of the laws that she feels are not equitable. Her pet quetzal Lázaro, a talking doll and a sidekick she meets along her journey round out the heroic characters in the story. The storyline is strong, if a bit predictable, but the lyrical writing makes up for that. I would have liked to have seen more character development of the minor characters. Environment protection, social justice, and good vs evil are the major themes in the story, and this would make an excellent read-aloud in a Gr. 3 or 4 classroom, with lots to discuss.
Thank you to NetGally and Disney Hyperion for the uncorrected galley proof. Opinions are my own.
Solimar is almost 15, and on her Quinceañera, she will also be crowned princess of the kingdom. Before that happens, however, tragedy strikes. Solimar's kingdom is invaded when her father and brother are away, and the rest of her family is taken hostage. The invaders have also stumbled upon Solimar's magical rebozo, which allows her to see into the future and will also, hopefully, save the monarch butterflies who use the oyamel forests in their kingdom as a stopping point on their yearly migration.
Solimar is a character with a strong personal mandate of doing the right thing. She cares for her family, the people and the animals in her kingdom, and wishes that her father would change his mind about some of the laws that she feels are not equitable. Her pet quetzal Lázaro, a talking doll and a sidekick she meets along her journey round out the heroic characters in the story. The storyline is strong, if a bit predictable, but the lyrical writing makes up for that. I would have liked to have seen more character development of the minor characters. Environment protection, social justice, and good vs evil are the major themes in the story, and this would make an excellent read-aloud in a Gr. 3 or 4 classroom, with lots to discuss.
Thank you to NetGally and Disney Hyperion for the uncorrected galley proof. Opinions are my own.
June 13, 2023
Okay so I originally found this book while working at the library, somebody returned it and the cover caught my eye. I read the inside cover and thought it sounded cute, so when it became available as an audiobook I had to check it out.
Turns out I was not disappointed.
This middle-grade Mexican-inspired fantasy was an adorable read. Even as an adult, I found the adventure fun and every scene felt so vibrant. I loved the main character, Solimar. The way she handled herself in her situation was absolutely believable for a courageous girl of her age, and I loved how determined she was to help. I also loved the stuff with the butterflies, and Solimar's relationship with her brother. It was so cute!
There were a few things I didn't like as much, like the doll that talked to Solimar. Her character seemed a bit unnecessary, though I can definitely see how a younger reader might think it's awesome, so I can't really complain TOO much. Also, I was going to write that the novel wasn't very "high stakes" but in retrospect the stakes were very high if Solimar had failed in her mission. The reason I'm complaining about this is because the stakes never FELT very high.
Overall, I think most of my complaints with this book are simply because I am an adult. I think this is a great book for middle-grade readers, though I definitely thing girls would connect more with the story than boys. It absolutely feels like a book my sister would have read and loved as a kid.
Turns out I was not disappointed.
This middle-grade Mexican-inspired fantasy was an adorable read. Even as an adult, I found the adventure fun and every scene felt so vibrant. I loved the main character, Solimar. The way she handled herself in her situation was absolutely believable for a courageous girl of her age, and I loved how determined she was to help. I also loved the stuff with the butterflies, and Solimar's relationship with her brother. It was so cute!
There were a few things I didn't like as much, like the doll that talked to Solimar. Her character seemed a bit unnecessary, though I can definitely see how a younger reader might think it's awesome, so I can't really complain TOO much. Also, I was going to write that the novel wasn't very "high stakes" but in retrospect the stakes were very high if Solimar had failed in her mission. The reason I'm complaining about this is because the stakes never FELT very high.
Overall, I think most of my complaints with this book are simply because I am an adult. I think this is a great book for middle-grade readers, though I definitely thing girls would connect more with the story than boys. It absolutely feels like a book my sister would have read and loved as a kid.
February 21, 2022
I fell in love with this book from the first look at the cover. (The copy I read was an eARC that I received from NetGalley.) I have read nearly everything Pam Muñoz Ryan has written before and knew that she would not steer me wrong in this book.
Most of this review will be a gush fest since I have difficulty thinking of anything negative to say about this book.
Solimar, the character, engages the reader from the outset. She's a spunky girl on the eve of her quinceañera in a magical realist Mexico, an almost princess who sets out to save her kingdom and the amazing monarch butterflies that migrate to and from her home. This book centers Mexican culture and heritage in a heartwarming, encouraging light while sprinkling in the magic that forms a crucial part of Mexican literature.
I will most certainly add this to my classroom library and may also purchase a separate copy for myself!
Also reviewed at storygraph.
Most of this review will be a gush fest since I have difficulty thinking of anything negative to say about this book.
Solimar, the character, engages the reader from the outset. She's a spunky girl on the eve of her quinceañera in a magical realist Mexico, an almost princess who sets out to save her kingdom and the amazing monarch butterflies that migrate to and from her home. This book centers Mexican culture and heritage in a heartwarming, encouraging light while sprinkling in the magic that forms a crucial part of Mexican literature.
I will most certainly add this to my classroom library and may also purchase a separate copy for myself!
Also reviewed at storygraph.
Read
November 15, 2022A good, light magical fantasy with touches of adventure, ecology, engineering/building, and bucking "traditional" girl roles. I like how Solimar had to learn to trust herself to be brave and it wasn't just her newfound magic or male friend defining who she was and what she was capable of doing.
Occasionally I wanted more details, but at the same time, sometimes fantasy gets too long and bogged down and this book is a great length for kids who like fantasy, but balk at 400+ page books. I can see this appealing to readers who like Gail Carson Levine (though it's been a while since I've read one of her books to really compare).
Also, despite her numerous books, I somehow haven't read many of them. This one made me want to go back and pick up a few more.
Occasionally I wanted more details, but at the same time, sometimes fantasy gets too long and bogged down and this book is a great length for kids who like fantasy, but balk at 400+ page books. I can see this appealing to readers who like Gail Carson Levine (though it's been a while since I've read one of her books to really compare).
Also, despite her numerous books, I somehow haven't read many of them. This one made me want to go back and pick up a few more.
January 5, 2024
My teenage daughter recommended I read this book, and it’s my first completion of the new year! She loves fantasy reads and knows that I do not so she said, “There is a little bit of fantasy magic at the beginning but keep reading because I think you’ll really like it.” And so I did, because she knows me so well!
The representation of Mexican culture through an OwnVoices author is greatly appreciated. I hope that all readers also enjoy the connection with nature (saving butterflies and preserving forests), as well as the adventure and female empowerment in the story line.
At times, I felt as if the book was a mash-up of several Disney movies we have watched. Yet, the storyline became uniquely its own. My daughter and I discussed the complexity of the plot as the book came to a dramatic close. Great first read of 2024!
The representation of Mexican culture through an OwnVoices author is greatly appreciated. I hope that all readers also enjoy the connection with nature (saving butterflies and preserving forests), as well as the adventure and female empowerment in the story line.
At times, I felt as if the book was a mash-up of several Disney movies we have watched. Yet, the storyline became uniquely its own. My daughter and I discussed the complexity of the plot as the book came to a dramatic close. Great first read of 2024!
December 19, 2021
Good book for middle grade school age kids. Interesting and pretty fast paced. Solimar is a princess-to-be just before her 15th birthday. Set in Mexico I think based on the Monarch butterflies visit and the Hispanic names and culture, but in the time of kings and queens and with some magic thrown in for good measure.
Solimar has to escape from a hostile takeover of her family castle and find a way to inform her father and brother and save the castle. They are far away at a big market and she has to travel down the river rapids to get there. She has a magical talking doll and the temporary gift of prophecy from the butterflies. It's a fun journey, a little scary. Nothing gory and no romance.
Solimar has to escape from a hostile takeover of her family castle and find a way to inform her father and brother and save the castle. They are far away at a big market and she has to travel down the river rapids to get there. She has a magical talking doll and the temporary gift of prophecy from the butterflies. It's a fun journey, a little scary. Nothing gory and no romance.
April 30, 2025
Shortly before her Quinceañera, Solimar is magically bestowed a gift by the monarch butterflies - in return for helping to protect some of their weaker members, she is granted the ability to predict the near future. When her father, brother, and many other male members of the community are away, a neighboring king invades and takes her mother and other members of the household captive. It's up to Solimar with the help of friends she meets along the way to get help and save her family.
NC MBOB selection 2025-2026
Pam Munoz Ryan is an expert at writing stories for middle grades that grab readers and show a deep appreciation for Mexican culture and heritage. The story was well paced and characters interesting.
NC MBOB selection 2025-2026
Pam Munoz Ryan is an expert at writing stories for middle grades that grab readers and show a deep appreciation for Mexican culture and heritage. The story was well paced and characters interesting.
March 27, 2022
First, Solimar accidentally falls under an enchantment in which she has no choice but to answer questions about the future. Then, she overhears a plot in which a nearby kingdom is planning on kidnapping her and extorting her father in order to gain access to the resources of a sacred forest. What follows is an exciting adventure through forests, rivers and caves, alongside some unlikely friends, as Solimar races to alert her father and save their kingdom. Exciting! (Left off the fifth star because of a slow start - almost missed the adventure!)
January 29, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for a free e-Arc of this book! Solimar is about to be crowned a princess, but she really wants to be in a position of actual power. When she is unexpectedly blessed with the ability to see the future, she tries to use this power to save her kingdom. This was not my favorite Pam Munoz Ryan book, but it was enjoyable. It was fast-paced, and I think middle grade readers will enjoy it.
February 14, 2022
*Note I have received a free copy of this book and it will not affect my thoughts or feelings towards it*
This story I thought was crafted pretty well. The pacing was always at a great speed and never speed down so it never felt like we ever stopped and did nothing, I thought Solimar was a great main character and their message that their character tells is a great message that everybody should hear. The plot overall was a really cute fun adventure and a fun time. Overall this book was a 3.5/5 stars for me,
This story I thought was crafted pretty well. The pacing was always at a great speed and never speed down so it never felt like we ever stopped and did nothing, I thought Solimar was a great main character and their message that their character tells is a great message that everybody should hear. The plot overall was a really cute fun adventure and a fun time. Overall this book was a 3.5/5 stars for me,
January 30, 2023
I think this would be a really nice family read. It's under 200 pages, and touches on topics of sexism, environmentalism, government types etc. that older children will pick up on and could discuss, but younger children will just enjoy the story of a princess that has to save her family and her kingdom. Plus, talking doll, pet bird and magic shawl.
October 30, 2025
2025-26 Middle School Battle of the Books
This was short and enjoyable. I love the idea of the monarch butterflies being rescued by Solimar, the ones too weak to migrate right away with the others. A good look, too, at what are considered the typical "boy" and "girl" roles in any family, doubly so for a royal one.
Through in the doll, Zarita, for some comic relief, and it was fun!
This was short and enjoyable. I love the idea of the monarch butterflies being rescued by Solimar, the ones too weak to migrate right away with the others. A good look, too, at what are considered the typical "boy" and "girl" roles in any family, doubly so for a royal one.
Through in the doll, Zarita, for some comic relief, and it was fun!
January 30, 2022
What a wonderful tale. I loved how this read as a fairytale of old. It was full of adventure and magic and was just wonderful. I especially loved the imagery of the butterflies and the magic surrounding them. Solimar was such a fun protagonist. I really think middle grade kids are going to love this one.
February 22, 2023
Like an adventure as big as Luca and an atmosphere as descriptive as Encanto, this could be your next Disney movie - an interesting heroine, a splash of unusual magic, a bird companion, a talking doll.... throw in a quinceanera and you have a rich adventure story. Beautiful.
May 5, 2022
3.5 Stars
My favorite scene in "Solimar" is when the title character, after learning of her special purpose, stands in the sun and unfurls her gleaming, magical butterfly tapestry for the first time. It's a shimmering cinematic moment in step with the best fantasy heroines.
I guess for me, the book falls a little short in developing the danger, not just to Solimar's city but especially to the butterflies she is meant to protect, as I felt that was the most unique element of this magical princess character. The sidekicks are also a little Disney-esque. I do like Pam Muñoz Ryan's brave and independent characters and will be collecting the rest of her books.
My favorite scene in "Solimar" is when the title character, after learning of her special purpose, stands in the sun and unfurls her gleaming, magical butterfly tapestry for the first time. It's a shimmering cinematic moment in step with the best fantasy heroines.
I guess for me, the book falls a little short in developing the danger, not just to Solimar's city but especially to the butterflies she is meant to protect, as I felt that was the most unique element of this magical princess character. The sidekicks are also a little Disney-esque. I do like Pam Muñoz Ryan's brave and independent characters and will be collecting the rest of her books.
February 8, 2024
Enjoyed with my 11 year old. Listened and read at the same time and it was a good experience to have a native speaker pronounce the words as they were meant to sound. Story was cute and simple but felt a little thrown together….missing some depth and passion.
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