In Pam Muñoz Ryan's Indie Next List title Mañanaland, the Newbery Honoree (Echo) and Pura Belpré Award winner (The Dreamer) creates a richly satisfying novel that is both contemporary and timeless. Almost 12, Maximiliano explores family history and tests his courage as he rescues a small girl from horrible conditions.
There is a cruel dictator in Abismo, from whom many have fled. In the neighboring country, several of Max's family members work to rescue the refugees--in fact, his papá is a rescuer. When Max's father briefly leaves their village, a priest shows up with a young girl who must be brought to the "next safe place"; the priest asks Max to guide the girl. Ryan's portrayal of Max's life is realistic, but there is also a hint of magic to the work. The author seamlessly weaves into Max's journey important themes about asylum seekers and the people who help them. --Melinda Greenblatt, freelance book reviewer