Claw Quest (The Cat Prophecies #1)

A rapid-paced Chosen One narrative propels Korpon and Paz’s rollicking double debut, a series launch. In Cali, Colombia’s Barrio San Antonio, 13-year-old artist and superhero fanatic Tito Rodríguez endures frequent torment from bullies who mock the facial expressions and bodily movements brought about by his Tourette’s. Tito’s diagnosis—which allows him to “notice patterns everywhere”—helps him realize that an orange cat has been following him. As Tito copes with the devastating news that his papá, who immigrated to the U.S. for work, now has a new family and won’t be returning to Colombia, the cat, named Cukkito, takes the teen to a realm of talking warrior felines. There, Tito learns that he may be the Chosen One destined to save the human and cat realms from an imminent invasion of destructive spirits called Ywanch. Tension mounts when Tito’s mamá is bespelled by dark Ywanch magic. Alongside two other potential Chosen Ones, Tito must channel his beloved superheroes to eliminate the threat. Imagery-rich language depicts a vibrant backdrop (“Cali had a heartbeat, and that heartbeat was music, art, and joy”) against which vivacious and compassionate Tito utilizes his neurological condition in the fight to save the people and place he loves. Ages 8–12. (June)