Maximiliano Córdoba loves stories, especially the legend Buelo tells him about a mythical gatekeeper who can guide brave travelers who are true of heart on a journey into tomorrow.
If Max could see tomorrow, he would know if he’d make Santa Maria’s celebrated fútbol team, and whether he’d ever meet his mother, who disappeared when he was a baby. He longs to know more about her, but Papa won’t talk. So when Max uncovers a buried family secret—involving an underground network of guardians who lead people fleeing a neighboring country to safety—he decides to seek answers on his own.
With a treasured compass, a mysterious stone rubbing, and Buelo’s legend as his only guides, he sets out on a dangerous quest to discover if he is true of heart and what the future holds.
Awards and Honors
New York Times 25 Best Books of the Year – Kirkus Best Books of the Year – NY Public Library Best Books of the Year – Indie Bestseller (Independent Bookstores) – Publishers Weekly Best Books of the Year – CA Independent Booksellers Best Middle Grade Novel of the Year – Shelf Awareness Best Books of the Year – PARENTS Magazine Best Books of the Year – Amazon Best Books of the Year – Capitol Choices Best Books – CCBC Best of the Year
