Miguel Must Fight!

★ “A thrilling mini-adventure” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review 
★ “A positive message of creativity over warfare” —Shelf Awareness, starred review

In this charming Spanish language story, a young artist in a family of sword fighters will put his passions to the test when a dragon attacks the village.

Miguel was like a paintbrush in a family of steely swords …

All his life, Miguel’s familia told him he must fight! But his family’s art of sword fighting never captivated him as much as the sway of his colored pencils did. 

When his village is threatened by El Dragón, Miguel must make a choice: will he stand with his familia and fight, or can he prove that the pencil is mightier than the sword? 

With vibrant illustrations from award-winning artist Sara Palacios, this charming story of family tradition and self-discovery will inspire young readers to always follow their passions. 

• * “Ofelia’s picture-book debut crackles with a playful text that wraps a self-affirming message in a thrilling mini-adventure … A maravilloso reminder of being true to oneself.” I>Kirkus, starred review
  Kirkus
• * "In Jamie Ofelia's well-honed, winning debut ... action-filled art, a positive message of creativity over warfare, and text that balances English and Spanish assure an entertaining reader experience both solo and as a read aloud." 
  Shelf Awareness, starred review
• "In her engaging acrylic artwork in a warm palette, Palacios adds abundant detail showcasing the community's Latine culture. Wrapped in an entertaining package that neatly incorporates Spanish language ... this story emphasizes that weaponry and fighting are not the only ways to defend oneself and that Miguel's determination to stay true to himself in the face of social pressures is a special kind of strength."
  Booklist