Hot Off the Press: 5 Must-Read Releases by Latina Authors

“Solis” by Paola Mendoza and Abby Sher

This is the only book on the list that isn’t out yet, but you won’t have to wait long to get your hands on it. “Solis” by Colombian Paola Mendoza, writer, award-winning film director, activist, and co-founder of the Women’s March, and Abby Sher, writer and performer, is a dystopian young adult sci-fi novel that explores the sacrifices of standing up and fighting for freedom.

Set in a near-future America where undocumented immigrants are trapped in labor camps, forced to dig for a mineral that could change the world, and experimented on, our heroine, Rania, is ready to start a revolution. This Lebanese teenager and 3 brave fellow prisoners are set to fight against the corrupt, xenophobic government keeping its boot on their necks. Will they succeed, or is it too late for change? “Solis” feels more current than ever and it provides important, empowering social commentary wrapped in an action-packed story that will keep you turning the pages.

“Defectors: The Rise of the Latino Far Right and What It Means for America” by Paola Ramos

Paola Ramos, of Cuban and Mexican descent, is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and a political force to be reckoned with. As a contributor for Telemundo News and MSNBC, and a former correspondent for Vice News, Ramos knows her stuff. She’s worked on campaigns for both President Obama and Hillary Clinton and is also the author of “Finding Latin-X,” making her one of the most important voices in contemporary Latino issues.

In her latest nonfiction book, “Defectors: The Rise of the Latino Far Right and What It Means for America,” Ramos dives into the rise of far-right sentiment among Latinos and provides insightful political analysis. This book also explores Latino identity and how it intersects with politics today, making it an essential read to understand how race and identity shape American politics—and how Latinos, one of the most misunderstood electorates, could help reshape the future.

“Burnt Out to Lit Up: How to Reignite the Joy of Leading People” by Daisy Auger-Domínguez

Feeling burnt out from work is something most people are very familiar with. Especially if they’re in leadership positions, where so much is riding on their shoulders. If you can relate to that, “Burnt Out to Lit Up: How to Reignite the Joy of Leading People,” by Daisy Auger-Domínguez can help rekindle your leadership fire and find joy in your work again. Whether you’re managing a small team or an entire organization, this book offers practical tools to overcome burnout and inspire your employees.

Using her own personal stories, research, and actionable strategies, Dominican-Puerto Rican Aguer-Domínguez offers an invaluable guide to lead with passion, even when you feel like you’re being tested on all fronts. As a global leader and expert on the future of work, inclusion, and leadership burnout, Auger-Domínguez is one of the most qualified Latinas to offer this guidance. With experience at global giants like Google, Disney, and Vice Media, she knows how to create thriving work cultures, and isn’t gatekeeping her secrets.

“Thank You, Gracias” by Susie Jaramillos

If you’re sharing your love of reading with little ones, whether that’s your own children, younger siblings, nieces and nephews, etc., “Thank You, Gracias,” is a lovely book to introduce them to. Venezuelan-American Susie Jaramillo is an Emmy-nominated creator and you might already know her as the creator of the successful bilingual preschool brand, Canticos. Her award-winning work has helped millions of kids around the world embrace bilingual education through songs, books, and apps, and she’s known for her creativity, which expands from storytelling to entrepreneurship.

Jaramillo’s “Thank You, Gracias” is a lift-the-flap board book full of playful rhymes in English and Spanish, and cheerful illustrations. It’s a charming read that will help children learn about giving thanks while having fun and interacting with a beautiful book. It’s an essential one if you’re raising bilingual kids or want to introduce children to a new language in a way that makes it truly interesting and engaging for them.

“The Daggers of Ire” by J.C. Cervantes

In “The Daggers of Ire,” Esmerelda Santos, a rare bruja with Chaos magic, faces the biggest challenge of her life. After a mysterious curse wipes out all the magic in her town, Esme and her best friend Tiago must go on a dangerous journey to save their families. With a witch hunter hot on their trail, they race against time to unlock the secrets of an ancient legend. This middle-grade Latine fantasy is full of magic, humor, and heart, exploring courage and sisterhood in a heartwarming adventure.

J.C. Cervantes, of Mexican and Anglo descent, is a New York Times bestselling author known for blending Latino culture with fantasy elements to create vibrant worlds for children, young adults, and adults. She’s known for her “Storm Runner” series, which is a worldwide success, and her books have earned her multiple awards, including the New Mexico Book Award. She’s all about finding magic in everyday life, and this latest book from her offers exactly that.

With these recent releases, Latina authors are bringing powerful, diverse, and educational stories to the forefront. Whether you’re in the mood for fiction or nonfiction, these books should have a spot on your to-be-read list. Happy reading!