El Niño

This is a charming middle-grade novel that blends mythology with themes of loss, resilience, and hope. The story follows Kai, a young boy still grappling with the disappearance of his sister, Cali, who vanished two years ago while out on the ocean. Her surfboard was recovered, but she was never found. Since that day, Kai has struggled emotionally, and his performance in swimming has declined. He's now worried about losing his place on the 8th grade swim team.

During a team practice in the ocean, Kai experiences something unexpected. He becomes convinced that his sister may have become the legendary Queen Califia, a mythical figure from a book that Cali treasured.

As Kai tries to make sense of what he believes he saw, can he find the strength to return to the person he once was?

This touching and imaginative story is perfect for both children and adults, offering a mix of myth and mystery.