Adventure in the City of Stories (Cousins in the Time of Magic #2)
Written by Emma Otheguy
Illustrated by Poly Bernatene
Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Cousins Jorge, Camila, and Siggy never imagined that dusty old puppets and a mysterious book would launch them into a time-traveling adventure. But when they discover their aunt has treasures belonging to Pura Belpré, the trailblazing Latina librarian and storyteller, they’re transported back to 1930s New York City. Their mission? Race against time to return Pura’s puppets and a signed first edition of her book, proving their aunt isn’t a thief.
The past is full of danger, though. A powerful woman will stop at nothing to steal the book, the cousins’ nosy neighbor is snooping around, and the hardship of the Great Depression is all around them. Luckily Jorge, Camila, and Siggy meet Antonia, a fierce Puerto Rican girl fighting injustice against her community.
The cousins will need courage, quick thinking, and a little help from history to protect Pura Belpré’s legacy, clear their aunt’s name, and make it back home. Can they pull it off before time runs out?
Don’t miss the rest of the series! Explore:
También disponible en Español, Aventura en la Ciudad de las Historias.
Primary ISBN: 9781665915212
Publication Date: July 2026
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 08 or older
Community Represented: Cuban/Cuban American, Mexican/Mexican American, Puerto Rican
Themes: Arts, Cross-Group Friendship, Cultural Empowerment, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Family, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Friendship, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Identity, Discrimination: Microaggression, Discrimination: Racial, Family Relationship: Extended, Genre: Fantasy & Folklore, Genre: Historical, Identity: Multilingual, Multilingual: Spanish Featured Words, Own Voices/Lived Experience
Setting: United States (Miami FL), United States (New York City NY) - Historical
Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
Click here for details about how we define our titles.
Engagement Projects & Resources:
Share your favorite resources for this book with info@imyourneighborbooks.org.