Sixth grader Max (Maximilian and the Mystery of the Guardian Angel) finds new challenges in junior high. The eighth graders are mean, "the girl of his dreams" moves away, and a new girl seems determined to get Max in trouble. The uncomplicated story line lacks any real tension, but this bilingual text in both English and Spanish is a quick read. A black-and-white illustration opens each chapter.

Maximilian, the lucha-libre–obsessed 11-year-old from Garza's Pura Belpré Honor winner, Maximilian and the Mystery of the Guardian Angel (2011), returns to tackle a new mystery--understanding girls! Max is now in junior high, and lucha libre is still a big part of his life. He dreams of one day taking over for his favorite luchador, the Guardian Angel. However, most of this story takes place outside of the wrestling ring and in the more subtle world of relationships. Members of Max's family must learn to work out their differences and forgive each other for past mistakes. Max's first girlfriend moves to another state, and as he navigates young love in a long-distance relationship, a mysterious new girl enters his life. Short chapters and the bilingual format (English text is on the left with Spanish translation on facing pages) make this book a quick read, great for reluctant readers, but it ends too quickly, before any real action begins. The sequel feels as though it is a transition book, perhaps moving toward a future series. Readers who enjoyed the first title will be pleased to continue reading about Max and his family, but this follow-up isn't strong enough on its own to win many new fans. Though this sequel doesn't achieve the same victory as its predecessor, it does set the stage for more engaging rounds to come--here's hoping. (Fiction. 9-12)

Gr 4-7 This bilingual sequel to Maximilian &; the Mystery of the Guardian Angel (Cinco Puntos, 2011) avoids formulaic trappings and can be readily enjoyed as a stand-alone novel while artfully setting up the next installment. Everything has become more complicated for lucha-libre wrestling fanatic Maximilian since starting sixth grade. A loter&7;a bingo game almost breaks out into "a no-holds-barred brawl" when his aunts Dolores and Socorro both claim the Queen Bingo trophy and an intense rematch looms imminent. Big changes with his Uncle Lalo put the family's newly minted wrestling dynasty on shaky ground. Romance blossoms between Maximilian and Celia Cruz, who then moves to California. Can their long-distance love last, especially when a new girl with a mysterious connection to Maximilian moves to Rio Grande City? Max's transition into sixth grade drives this adventure and coming-of-age novel's narrative arc, framing a plot that focuses on relationships that a range of readers will connect with: family, friends, and first love, among others. Garza employs plenty of humor and a first-person voice that rings true to Maximilian's character. The story includes enough action to satisfy most fans while broadening its focus to reflect the increasing complexities in the boy's life. Energetic cartoon illustrations complement the story, particularly those related to lucha libre. A quick pace and short chapters make this an engaging read; with its bilingual text and universally relatable treatment of Latino culture, it's an outstanding choice. Ted McCoy, Oakland Public Library, CA