The Cassandra Curse

Gr 3-6–There are too many changes impacting Callie’s life. Her favorite aunt, tia Annie, passed away; her parents divorced; Dad and his new wife are expecting a baby; and her BFF is suddenly a TV singing sensation. When she is approached by Clio and told she is one of the nine muses, a Greek goddess of sorts, Callie is definitely sure she is dreaming, and fairly sure she doesn’t want to accept the responsibility. But then she is magically transported to muse headquarters, in London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, and introduced to three fellow tween muses, self-dubbed the Muse Squad. Clio shows Callie that Maya, a brilliant, nerdy student at her middle school, is being targeted by the evil Sirens, and if they succeed in disrupting Maya’s life it may change the fate of the world. Callie agrees to join her Muse Squad mates and find a way to protect Maya and save the planet. This riveting, suspenseful book presents a unique blend of Greek mythology and Cuban culture. Readers will relate to Callie and her Muse Squad friends while eagerly rooting for them to succeed. The girls, while trying to complete their mission, make age-appropriate mistakes and become tempted to use their powers for personal reasons. Insecure Callie is also fighting blossoming jealousy of her suddenly famous best friend. Callie’s Cuban heritage is highlighted throughout the story, particularly once the Muse Squad relocates to Miami and the diverse group attempts to acclimate.