We are delighted to share that School Library Journal gave MANI SEMILLA FINDS HER QUETZAL VOICE, Anna Lapera's middle-grade that debuts March 5, 2024, a starred review!
Congrats, Anna, on this and your other reviews that have so far come in!
School Library Journal Starred Review: "VERDICT A powerful look at collective action that shows when we raise our voices together, we don’t just make noise—we sing. Not to be missed."
Kirkus Reviews: "A poignant, feminist coming-of-age story."
Newbery Medalist Donna Barba Higuera: "Anna Lapera expertly voices a young girl’s middle school trials, but with a voice so unique and heartfelt you will be cringing one moment and cheering the next. She weaves a distinctive story filled with humor, family heartache, and secrets while a young girl releases the fear of her voice and grasps its power.”
Publishers Weekly: "Using perceptive prose, debut author Lapera approaches Guatemala’s fraught history with care and respect, and lovingly spotlights the tension felt in the relationship between a protective mother and the daughter who seeks independence from her."
Booklist Starred Review: "Readers will root for Mani as she develops the courage to advocate for herself and other girls, even when it’s frightening. A great introduction for middle-schoolers and tween readers to topics such as consent and the #MeToo movement."