PERHAPS A GIFT VOUCHER FOR MUM?: MOTHER'S DAY
Anna Meriano grew up in Houston, Texas, with an older brother and a younger brother but (tragically) no sisters. She graduated from Rice University with a degree in English and earned her MFA in creative writing with an emphasis in writing for children from the New School in New York. She has taught creative writing and high school English and works as a writing tutor. Anna likes reading, knitting, playing full-contact quidditch, and translating English song lyrics into Spanish and vice-versa. Her favorite baked goods are the kind that don't fly away before you eat them.
Meriano builds a wonderful contemporary world in small-town Texas, full of diverse characters, where magic feels right at home and muggles will feel equally welcome. A series opener that's proof that windows and mirrors can be magical ingredients. -- <em>Kirkus Reviews </em><strong>(starred review)</strong> A delectable debut with wide appeal. -- School Library Journal <strong>(starred review)</strong> Full of spirit and humor, A Dash of Trouble truly is love, sugar and magic. -- Shelf Awareness (starred review) The power of friendship and family bonds, as well as how good intentions can end badly, are strong themes that will resonate with middle-grade readers. Leo is a funny, lovable protagonist, and readers will feel right at home in this cozy series starter. -- ALA Booklist Meriano sets up a promising premise for a sweetly joyful series. -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Chock full of humor, magic, friendship and sisterhood, Anna Meriano's debut launches a new series that celebrates Mexican-American culture and traditions. -- <em>BookPage</em>
