Finding Spanish-language books for older readers continues to be a challenge, but we’ve curated this list that includes translations of Jason Reynolds and Raina Telgemeier’s popular titles and a Spanish-original YA about an undocumented teen.

Middle Grade

Arango, Andrea Beatriz. Todo o nada, Valentina. tr. from English by Kayla Medina Rosa. 272p. Vintage Español. May 2025. pap. $14.95. ISBN 9798890982544.
Gr 4-7–Newbery Honor Award-winning Arango’s Spanish-language translation of It’s All or Nothing, Vale introduces readers to Valentina “Vale” Camacho, a middle school fencing champion whose courage is tested after surviving a car accident. Family and friends rally around Vale, but she has new competition at the gym: Myrka. Vale hasn’t made a close friend in years, and Myrka’s presence is unsettling. Can Vale learn to be a team player and still keep her competitive edge? Written entirely in verse, this coming-of-age story focuses on two female athletes whose parents are from Puerto Rico and Cuba. It is a must-read for teen audiences seeking heroines who have close-knit families but branch out to find themselves through sport and new relationships. Arango’s third novel is a delight. She deftly explores the girls’ crushes, their competitive natures, and the ways diverse influences shape the choices they make. VERDICT A must-have selection for Spanish-language middle grade collections.–Sharon Sherman

Otheguy, Emma. Cousins in the Time of Magic. Feb. 2025. ISBN 9781665915182. 
––––. Primos en tiempos de magia. tr. by Emily Carrero Mustelier. Apr. 2025. ISBN 9781665965781. 
ea vol: illus. by Poly Bernatene. 240p. S. & S./Atheneum. Tr. $17.99. 
Gr 3-7–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. At its heart, this novel celebrates the strength that comes from family. The cousins embark on a journey that challenges them to trust one another, discover their inner courage, and embrace the magic hidden within the past. Otheguy masterfully blends historical elements with fantasy. Bernatene’s illustrations add another layer of wonder. This book is a treasure for children and adults alike, proving that imagination is the ultimate portal to knowledge, adventure, and endless possibilities. The Spanish-language translation captures the wonder of the English edition. VERDICT Purchase both editions for middle grade collections.–Aurora Dominguez

Pilkey, Dav. Hombre Perro: El Despeluzado Escarlata. tr. from English by Nuria Molinero. illus. by Dav Pilkey. 224p. (Hombre Perro). Scholastic en español. Mar. 2025. Tr $14.99. ISBN 9781546148036.
Gr 3-7–Pilkey does it again in this Spanish edition of Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder, the 12th book in his bestselling series that blends humor, heart, and heroism. This time, Dog Man faces rejection after a skunk encounter turns his fur a shocking red. Even though the smell is gone, people judge him by his appearance and send him away. What follows is an exciting journey filled with action, laughs, and an important reminder not to judge others based on how they look. Longtime fans will love the return of favorite characters like Petey, who struggles with doing the right thing even when it’s tough. New readers can easily jump in and enjoy the wild ride, thanks to the book’s fast pacing, eye-catching illustrations, and relatable themes. At its core, this story is about second chances, friendship, and staying true to yourself, even when others don’t believe in you. This installment offers a fun and meaningful adventure kids won’t want to miss, one that mixes in a just-right blend of heart, humor and meaningful moments within its fun and engaging premise. VERDICT Add this latest installment of the Spanish-language edition of the popular series to all middle grade collections.–Aurora Dominguez

Reynolds, Jason. Lu (Spanish Edition). tr. from English by Alison Ridley. 256p. Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy. Apr. 2025. pap. $7.99. ISBN 9781665927659. 
Gr 4-8–Lu is more than just a fast runner. He’s an explosion of attitude, confidence, and, at the same time, a hidden vulnerability beneath all his swagger. Reynolds delivers another gem with this electrifying story, where Lu, with his flashy sneakers and oversized ego, faces his biggest challenge yet: seeing himself beyond his speed and the image he’s carefully built. From the first chapter, readers will feel the weight of loneliness disguised as arrogance. Lu has never had real friends, but for the first time, Ghost, Patina, and Sunny see him for who he is, and that is a boy searching for his place, wrestling with the shadow of his father, and, though he runs like the wind, unable to outrun himself. Reynolds immerses kids in a vibrant, rhythmic narrative, where every race is a metaphor for life, and every hurdle on the track mirrors Lu’s internal struggles. Powerful, honest, and with an unforgettable ending, this story is a true sprint to the heart that readers will learn from and connect with. VERDICT Middle grade Spanish-language collections will want to carry this and the other entries in this series.–Aurora Dominguez

Ryan, Pam Muñoz. El Niño (Spanish Edition). tr. from English by Pam Muñoz Ryan. illus. by Joe Cepeda. 288p. Scholastic en español. May 2025. pap. $8.99. ISBN 9781546176473. 
Gr 3-7–This is a stirring and emotionally rich story that dives deep into grief, healing, and the powerful connection between memory and the sea. The story follows Kai Sosa, a young swimmer burdened by the emotional weight of his family’s legacy, and unresolved feelings when it comes to the loss of his sister, Cali. As he pushes forward, trying to stay focused on competition and performance, Kai’s dreams and visions begin to pull him into something deeper—a mystical world where love and sorrow intertwine. Ryan’s storytelling is beautifully atmospheric, layering magical realism with very real grief and longing; vivid descriptions connect readers to what Kai goes through. El Niño is more than a coming-of-age story, it’s a tribute to the unspoken bonds that remain after loss, and a moving reminder that sometimes, letting go is the bravest act of love. VERDICT Emotionally powerful and quietly magical, this is a story that lingers and one that readers will find themselves drawn to from the start.–Aurora Dominguez

YA

Eber, Christine. Cuando una mujer se levanta. tr. by Camilo Pérez Bustillo. 224p. Cinco Puntos. Apr. 2025. pap. $18.95. ISBN 9781947627864. 
Gr 8 Up–This bold and touching story is full of real-life and powerful history lessons, shining a light on the strength of women and the impact of community. Set in the highlands of Chiapas, it follows Magdalena and her daughter Veronica as they confront the weight of cultural expectations and generational struggles. Magdalena opens up about her past, especially her deep bond with Lucía, a Zapatista leader and healer who disappeared after migrating north in search of work. She tells Veronica about their shared childhood dream of becoming teachers, and how poverty and gender roles shattered those hopes. Still, none of the women lose sight of who they are. Magdalena becomes a skilled weaver and community organizer, Lucía a brave and spiritual activist, and Veronica steps into her own voice as an interviewer and storyteller, preserving the powerful narratives of Zapatista women. The book is a meaningful look at activism, memory, and identity. It’s a reminder that change begins with stories, and with people brave enough to tell them and live them. The message is clear that there’s nothing more powerful than being genuine and finding the strength to stay true to oneself and one’s beliefs. VERDICT A good choice for Spanish-language YA shelves.–Aurora Dominguez

Marrero, Yarimar. Un país en mi mochila. 220p. Editorial Destellos. Jun. 2025. pap. $14.99. ISBN 9781958479261.  
Gr 6 Up–A timely coming-of-age novel about an immigrant teen finding a place in her new world. Protagonist Valeria “Val” Oca is a New Jersey high schooler who is adjusting to U.S. life far from her Havana, Cuba home. Val’s papi, grandparents, and boyfriend Leo are always just a phone call away, but daily life with her mother Ana is a struggle. Together, they tackle the consequences of crossing the U.S.-Mexico border on foot, straight into Homeland Security’s hands. This Spanish-language account depicts a 14-year-old’s resilience in the face of imminent danger. Valeria isn’t meant to be a poster child for those who come to the U.S. illegally. Rather, she is a force to be contended with, equally girlish and rebellious, when not just plainly overwhelmed. Through Val, Marrero gives voice to undocumented immigrants who navigate harsh circumstances at the U.S. southern border and stateside. VERDICT A strong choice for migrant teens looking for books that mirror their own experiences and a good addition to Spanish-language fiction shelves for older readers.–Sharon Sherman

Graphic Novels

Bowles, David. Los héroes gemelos y la magia de la canción. illus. by Charlene Bowles. 80p. (Leyendas de la serpiente emplumada: Bk. 2). Lee & Low/Cinco Puntos. Apr. 2025. pap. $15.95. ISBN 9781947627703.
Gr 4-8–A breathtaking journey into the heart of Mesoamerican mythology, woven with music, magic, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Author and illustrator craft a visually stunning and emotionally charged graphic novel that pulses with adventure and heart. Twin demigods, fueled by the raw power of song, set out on an impossible quest, one that is to defy death itself and bring their father and uncle back from the underworld. Every page sings with vibrant colors and movement, capturing the urgency of their mission. The art is mesmerizing, breathing life into a world of gods, spirits, and danger. But at its core, this is about bravery, love, and the power of story; this is not just a retelling, but a resurrection of ancient legends, delivered in a way that feels fresh and electrifying. The twins’ journey resonates with deep emotional stakes, their songs echoing the timeless power of hope and resilience. VERDICT Perfect for young readers and mythology lovers alike, this graphic novel is a triumph, one that is a dazzling tribute to the past and a beacon for the future.–Aurora Dominguez

Ogle, Rex. Cara de pizza. illus. by Dave Valeza. 224p. (Four Eyes: Bk. 2). Scholastic en español. Feb. 2025. pap. $12.99. ISBN 9781546160977.
Gr 4-8–The follow-up to Ogle’s Cuatro ojos finds Rex one grade older and adjusting to the onset of puberty. It’s the first day of seventh grade, and Rex is living every middle schooler’s nightmare: a “volcano” of a pimple on his forehead. Puberty brings about a plethora of changes, from breakouts to body odor, while a growth spurt and body hair evade him. To boot, Rex must navigate changing relationships with schoolmates, some from the first volume, and struggles particularly with female friends and new pressures to view girls in romantic terms. While his relationship with his mom is tense, often due to the family’s economic struggles, his abuela offers relief, listening to Rex’s worries, and providing practical advice and support, including deodorant and a trip to the dermatologist. The dynamic panels and bright palette complement the text, depicting the most awkward of moments with honesty and humor. The portrayal of open conversations about puberty between Rex and friends offers a useful model for readers facing similar experiences. VERDICT A worthy sequel for fans of Ogle’s first graphic novel, showcasing a universal experience which is still all too rarely seen in youth literature.–Jessica Agudelo

Telgemeier, Raina. Hermanas. tr. from English by Jofre Homedes Beutnagel. illus. by Raina Telgemeier. 208p. Scholastic en español. Aug. 2025. pap. $12.99. ISBN 9781546176527.
Gr 3-7–This Spanish-language edition of ­Telgemeier’s Sisters delivers a warm, funny, and emotionally rich graphic memoir that perfectly captures the highs and lows of growing up with a sister. Told through a mix of flashbacks and a present-day family road trip, the story focuses on Raina and her younger sister Amara as they slowly unpack years of frustration, jealousy, and love. The story is a journey of understanding oneself. It truly feels both personal and universal, especially for anyone who’s ever had to share a room, a toy, or the smallest space imaginable with a sibling. What really stands out is the cheerful and expressive art. Readers will love how Telgemeier uses her illustrations to bring humor and emotion to life. Her storytelling is relatable and heartfelt, and it shows that she cares about the topic. The book shines with its emotional depth, humor, and beautifully drawn scenes. Hermanas is both entertaining and authentic, making it a story that is not only a lesson, but a touching tale about family dynamics. VERDICT Purchase this Spanish edition of the wildly popular graphic novel for all middle grade and graphic novel ­collections.–Aurora Dominguez