Doña Quixote

July 10, 2023
Set in contemporary Texas, this Don Quixote retelling by Terciero (Northranger) and debut creator Magaña follows Mexican American tween Lucia embarking on an adventure to become a monster-hunting knight. Lucia grew up listening to her abuelo tell stories of his noble quests fighting paranormal creatures that only he could see in their Laredo, Tex., town. But his behaviors earned him the moniker “Abuelo Loco” from fellow residents. After his death, Lucia determines to follow in his footsteps, and her pursuits land Lucia and her tan-skinned, redheaded best friend Sandro in hot water with the mayor. When Lucia dons Abuelo’s suit of armor, which she finds in the attic, the outfit grants her the ability to see monsters. Guided by a ghostly woman known as La Mujer de Blanco, Lucia mistakes benign creatures for villains and wreaks havoc in her town, unintentionally unleashing a powerful evil that threatens their community and the world. The occasionally choppy plot teems with visually distinct characters and myriad supernatural creatures from Mexican lore. Vivid hues depict energetic action sequences that strike a skillful balance between fantastical scares and madcap adventure. Ages 8–12.

August 1, 2024
Lucia Castillo, a descendant of Don Quixote, is back to save her town once again in this sequel toDo�a Quixote: Rise of the Knight (2023). After taking on the knight's helmet following the passing of her abuelo, Mexican American Lucia was able to stop her town from being destroyed by its monstrous mayor with the help of best friend Sandro. Since then, she's become a local hero, helping everyone with their magical (and nonmagical) problems. But juggling her duties as a knight with homework and chores proves to be much more difficult than she thought. Abuelo said it was the helmet wearer's responsibility to protect others on their own; he warned her that it's a lonely life. But what happens when you can't do everything by yourself? When owls begin stealing people's prized possessions, Lucia realizes that something bigger could be afoot. Between failing grades, a coven of evil witches, and arguments with her parents and Sandro, Lucia has more on her plate than ever. As she works to solve the avian mystery, she learns to balance each aspect of her life: relationships, school, and, of course, heroics. The bright illustrations creatively depict Lucia's exploits, from the magic of her knight's helmet to memories of Abuelo, which appear in sepia tones. The creative formatting of the panels enhances the story's engaging nature. Another fun, magical adventure bolstered by meaningful life lessons. (notes on making a graphic novel)(Graphic adventure. 8-12)

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