Hand Me Down Magic 2: Crystal Ball Fortunes
Illustrated by Luis Uribe
June 16, 2020
Alma’s birthday gift for Del was supposed to be delightful and daring—just like Del. Her present was a magical crystal ball, and it worked, too! All of Del’s predictions for her party guests were coming true.
But when Alma looks into the ball to read Del’s future, she sees something frightening. Del is certain Alma has given her a bad-luck fortune and that it will spell DISASTER for her.
Del doesn’t feel like the brave cousin anymore. Which means it’s up to Alma to help Del face her fear—and her crystal ball fortune—with her best-friend-cousin right by her side.
PRAISE
“…the emotional beats are clearly delineated, and alternating focalization will allow readers to empathize with both Alma and Del. Reading is swift and accessible, broken up by copious cheerful illustrations, and youngsters will long to share in the cousins’ idyllic family life while understanding the pitfalls of propinquity.”
– BCCB
“The result is a nuanced look at the girls’ friendship, emotions, and motivations. A transitional chapter book with unusual depth, good pacing, and a loving, supportive Latinx family. Libraries should find space on their shelves for this new series.”
– Booklist
“This series debut is a sweet tale about friendship, family, and being the new kid on the block…The line-drawing illustrations throughout give a glimpse of the street where the girls live, the magic earrings, and some of the foods, like empanadas and gofio… A good fit for larger collections. Put this book in the hands of kids who enjoy series like Annie Barrows’s “Ivy and Bean” or Megan McDonald’s “Judy Moody.” ”
– School Library Journal