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Mañanaland

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Pam Muñoz Ryan

Mañanaland

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

247

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Belén, Mexico • Unspecified

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

Mañanaland by Pam Muñoz Ryan follows Maximiliano “Max” Córdoba as he embarks on a quest to uncover the mystery of his missing birth certificate and his mother’s past, while also helping a young girl named Isadora escape danger. Set in the village of Santa Maria, Max’s journey of self-discovery and courage ultimately leads him to understand hope and his own potential, all while aiming to secure a spot on the fútbol team.

Adventurous

Inspirational

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

3,140 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Pam Muñoz Ryan's Mañanaland has received praise for its lyrical prose, rich cultural setting, and heartwarming narrative, which weaves themes of family, courage, and hope. However, some readers felt the plot was predictable and desired more depth in character development. Overall, it is celebrated for its inspiring messages and vivid storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Mañanaland?

Readers who relish imaginative, heartfelt tales with cultural richness, akin to Esperanza Rising and The Night Diary, would cherish Mañanaland. Fans of historical fiction and magical realism, especially middle-grade readers seeking adventure and self-discovery, will find this story captivating.

4.4

3,140 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Max Cordoba

A nearly 12-year-old boy and the protagonist with black curls, caramel-colored eyes, and a burgeoning talent for fútbol, who grapples with growing up and the mystery surrounding his mother's absence.

Max's father, a hardworking and protective bridge-builder, who values stability and reality, and often shares wise sayings with Max while grappling with worries about the future.

Max's grandfather, a loving and whimsical figure who encourages Max's imagination and storytelling, while upholding Papá's decisions.

Max's best friend, considered like a brother, who plays fútbol with Max but sometimes drifts away due to differing opportunities.

An older and wealthy boy known for bragging, who often amplifies conflicts within the group and highlights Max's struggles by comparison.

The youngest and smallest of Max’s fútbol friends, knowledgeable about the game and inclined to believe in local myths alongside Max and Chuy.

A character from Buelo's stories, depicted as a guardian of secrets and lost things, who embodies wisdom and the potential to aid those seeking answers.

A very young and timid hidden one with a long braid and wire-rimmed glasses, who befriends Max during a particularly challenging journey.

Book Details
Pages

247

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Belén, Mexico • Unspecified

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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