Summer of the Mariposas

* "Written in the style of magic realism, this is an enchanting look at Mexican mysticism, coupled with the realistic celebration of the true meaning of family."

"Just as compelling as the vivid fantasy is the realism, especially the standoffs and reconciliations among the caring sisters, and the final shocking truth about their father and themselves is far from a sweet resolution. Readers will be drawn by the contemporary family drama and the magic, and they'll appreciate the author's note that discusses the story's roots in Mexican folklore and The Odyssey."

"Loosely based on The Odyssey, the journey adds interest by moving the girls through elements of Mexican folklore, and McCall's revision of both la Llorona and the chupacabras as victims in need of sympathy and compassion is particularly compelling. . . The story remains powerful to the end."

"In a witty voice, fifteen-year-old Odilia Garza recounts how she and her four younger sisters discover a corpse in a river near their Texas home and return him to his Mexican family across the border. Magical realism is introduced through several Mexican mythological characters who both challenge and help the girls on their Odyssey-like journey in this story of sisterly love."

"A series of adventures that hover somewhere on the border between fantasy and magical realism as the sisters are helped and hindered by supernatural forces including Latin American legends La Llorona, lechuzas and chupacabras. . . Originality and vibrancy shine through to make it a worthwhile read."