Daylan and the River of Secrets is an Américas Award Commended Title!

Last month marked National Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States. And while the political climate often feels complicated and even hopeless, I want to pause and express my gratitude for those highlighting stories that reflect and celebrate Latine heritage and lived experiences.

That’s why I’m beyond proud to share that my middle-grade novel, Daylan and the River of Secrets, was selected as a 2025 Américas Award Commended Title—a recognition that celebrates outstanding works of Latin American and Latine literature for young readers, from picture books to YA!

The review calls the novel “accessible and lyrical verse” that “captures the emotional depth of Daylan’s journey with sensitivity.” Through themes of Mexican folklore, mental health, and environmental ethics, the story invites reflection on cultural identity, grief, and the power of community.

Read the full list and the full review here.

Bonus News: Featured on the Children's Book Council Reading List

Daylan was also recently featured in the Children's Book Council's Hispanic Heritage Month Reading List, which highlights powerful books by and about Latine creators!

View the list here.

If you haven’t had a chance to read it, or want to share it with a young reader in your life, Daylan and the River of Secrets is available in both English and Spanish from West 44 Books / Enslow Publishing.