Cousins in the Time of Magic
Published on 10. February 2026
Book
Paperback/Softback
256 pages
978-1-6659-1519-9 (ISBN)
Description
Three cousins get transported back to 1862 to play an important role in the Battle of Puebla, the reason we celebrate Cinco de Mayo today, in this "spellbinding" (School Library Journal, starred review) middle grade fantasy adventure.
History is alive with magic. That's what zany Tia Xia is always telling cousins Jorge, Camila, and Siggy. Daredevil Jorge couldn't be more different than his cousins: Camila is a dreamer who adores animals and Siggy is an aspiring influencer who always has an exclusive party to attend. And their aunt has many secrets, including a mysterious diamond-encrusted sword that Jorge definitely wasn't supposed to see.
But when the three stumble upon a time portal in their aunt's yard, they are transported back to 1862, a past filled with wonders-and dangers. To return to the present, they must race to deliver the sword to General Ignacio Zaragoza in time for the historic Battle of Puebla in Mexico: the foundation of the holiday Cinco de Mayo.
As their journey to Mexico takes them through the Civil War-era United States, the cousins see just how much US history has been shaped by Latin communities. They must find the power within themselves to make sure things happen as they're supposed to, without altering the past.
History is alive with magic. That's what zany Tia Xia is always telling cousins Jorge, Camila, and Siggy. Daredevil Jorge couldn't be more different than his cousins: Camila is a dreamer who adores animals and Siggy is an aspiring influencer who always has an exclusive party to attend. And their aunt has many secrets, including a mysterious diamond-encrusted sword that Jorge definitely wasn't supposed to see.
But when the three stumble upon a time portal in their aunt's yard, they are transported back to 1862, a past filled with wonders-and dangers. To return to the present, they must race to deliver the sword to General Ignacio Zaragoza in time for the historic Battle of Puebla in Mexico: the foundation of the holiday Cinco de Mayo.
As their journey to Mexico takes them through the Civil War-era United States, the cousins see just how much US history has been shaped by Latin communities. They must find the power within themselves to make sure things happen as they're supposed to, without altering the past.
Reviews / Votes
"Otheguy's novel is deeply original, action-packed and brimming with historical richness and wit. It is particularly satisfying to see how her characters change and grow on their journey, ultimately gaining a better understanding of their culture and its influence on the United States at large." -- <I>The New York Times</I> * "A spellbinding tale that bridges the power of history, imagination, and family bonds. This book is not just a story-it's an adventure, a lesson, and an invitation to young readers to dream beyond the pages . . . Otheguy masterfully blends historical elements with fantasy . . . Bernatene's illustrations add another layer of wonder." -- <I>School Library Journal</I>, STARRED REVIEW "This high-flying, fast-paced adventure by Otheguy (Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene) gleefully embraces and explores Latino history, particularly the intersection of Mexican and United States relations. . . . an accessible and entertaining look at the events that led to contemporary Cinco de Mayo celebrations." -- <I>Publishers Weekly</I> "[T]hemes about understanding your heritage and taking pride in who you are will resonate with Latine readers especially. . . A high-stakes story that provides historical facts and intriguing magic wrapped up in one exciting quest." -- <I>Kirkus Reviews</I> "In the rollicking, informative, and moving pages of Cousins in the Time of Magic, Emma Otheguy balances history, adventure, and political activism with a sure, deft hand. A delightful book that's sure to become a timeless classic!"-David Bowles, award-winning author of They Call Me Gueero "Cousins in the Time of Magic wraps hidden history in a fascinating, fast-paced adventure full of cousin shenanigans, time travel, and danger. I couldn't put it down!"-Kate Messner, award-winning author of the History Smashers series "Cousins in the Time of Magic is perfect for readers in search of adventure steeped in history. You will laugh. You will learn. But most importantly, you will cheer for this trio as they discover untold histories and reveal the true meaning of family."-Tami Charles, New York Times bestselling author of All Because You Matter "A heartfelt adventure that's filled with hope, history, and the importance of family."-James Ponti, New York Times bestselling author of the City Spies series "With black-and-white illustrations throughout, this historical action-adventure tale reads like a blend of Rodman Philbrick's The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg (2009) and Treasure Island. . . . There is quite a bit to learn here about Cinco de Mayo and readers will find Otheguy successful both as an author and a historian." -- <I>Booklist</I>More details
Series
Edition
Reprint
Language
English
Place of publication
New York
United States
Publishing group
Simon & Schuster
Target group
Children/juvenile
US School Grade: From Third Grade to Seventh Grade, Interest Age: From 8 to 12 years
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Illustrations
f-c cvr (fx: spot gloss uv), matte film; digital; + b-w int illlus; digital
Dimensions
Height: 208 mm
Width: 140 mm
Thickness: 20 mm
Weight
204 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-6659-1519-9 (9781665915199)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions
Emma Otheguy
Cousins in the Time of Magic
E-Book
02/2025
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
€8.89
Available for download
Persons
Emma Otheguy is the author of several books for young readers, including the picture books A Sled for Gabo and Martina Has Too Many Tias, the bilingual picture book Marti's Song for Freedom, and the middle grade novels Sofia Acosta Makes a Scene, Cousins in the Time of Magic, Silver Meadows Summer, and, with Adam Gidwitz, The Madre de Aguas of Cuba, part of the Unicorn Rescue Society series. Visit her at EmmaOtheguy.com.
Poly Bernatene was born in 1972 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and has been drawing ever since. He graduated from Buenos Aires's art school, where he developed a great interest in managing different techniques in his work. He has worked in advertisement, animation, and comics. During the last fifteen years, he has established an exciting career as a professional illustrator, having published more than sixty children's books in eleven countries.
Poly Bernatene was born in 1972 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and has been drawing ever since. He graduated from Buenos Aires's art school, where he developed a great interest in managing different techniques in his work. He has worked in advertisement, animation, and comics. During the last fifteen years, he has established an exciting career as a professional illustrator, having published more than sixty children's books in eleven countries.