Book Review: A Dash of Trouble by Anna Meriano

A Dash of Trouble by Anna Meriano

Published by Walden Pond Press on January 2, 2018

Genres: Childrens, Middle Grade, Fantasy

Pages: 320 Format: Hardcover Source: Library

4.5/5 Stars

Image and Description Credit: Goodreads

Leonora Logroño’s family owns the most beloved bakery in Rose Hill, Texas, spending their days conjuring delicious cookies and cakes for any occasion. And no occasion is more important than the annual Dia de los Muertos festival.

Leo hopes that this might be the year that she gets to help prepare for the big celebration—but, once again, she is told she’s too young. Sneaking out of school and down to the bakery, she discovers that her mother, aunt, and four older sisters have in fact been keeping a big secret: they’re brujas—witches of Mexican ancestry—who pour a little bit of sweet magic into everything that they bake. 

Leo knows that she has magical ability as well and is more determined than ever to join the family business—even if she can’t let her mama and hermanas know about it yet.

And when her best friend, Caroline, has a problem that needs solving, Leo has the perfect opportunity to try out her craft. It’s just one little spell, after all…what could possibly go wrong?

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In search of a fun middle grade that boasts sweet treats, family/friend dynamics, and a sprinkle of magic? Then Anna Meriano’s A Dash of Trouble will definitely suit your taste. With baking and brujas, this book delivers a delightful tale of personal discovery, family fit, and silly school scenarios. Honestly it will leave you with a lingering smile and a craving for baked goods. What more could you ask for?

The youngest of five girls, Leo feels left out of her family’s bustling bakery business and seeks to know their secrets. She wants to be involved, a part of the whole, and her curious mind leads to some big revelations. At the same time Leo is also dealing with the dramatics of school, returning friends, and crushes going awry but while her journey is riddled with mistakes, she always tries to right them.

Honestly Meriano’s writing was wonderful, full of emotion as well as plenty of high jinks.  She touched on important topics of family life, Mexican heritage, supporting friends, and finding your place within a beautiful and sometimes humorous narrative. It reminded me of shows I loved like Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Wizards of Waverly Place, and I mean, who doesn’t need a healthy dose of love, sugar, and magic in their lives.

Overall A Dash of Trouble by Anna Meriano was a delicious debut that hit all the right notes. From baking magic to sisterly bonding and friendship fears to family legacy, this story was incredibly endearing and heartwarming. Leo stole the show with her inquisitive mind and persistent spirit but the whole Logroño family made waves. I highly recommend everyone pick this up!

Have you read A Dash of Trouble? Are you a kitchen wizard?

Let me know in the comments below!