Marikit and the Ocean of Stars by Caris Avendaño Cruz

Abstract

Reviewed by: Marikit and the Ocean of Stars by Caris Avendaño Cruz Danica Ronquillo Cruz, Caris Avendaño Marikit and the Ocean of Stars. Farrar, 2022 [336p] Trade ed. ISBN 9780374389093 $16.99 E-book ed. ISBN 9780374389109 $9.99 Reviewed from digital galleys R* Gr. 4-6 Tired of wearing old, recycled clothing, Marikit asks her mother, who is known to be the best seamstress in the barrio, to make a beautiful dress for her on her tenth birthday. When Marikit is gifted a patchwork dress, she fumes with anger, and her negative energy leads to shadow creatures invading her home on the eve of her birthday. It turns out her mother is a fairy, or Diwata, and to protect Marikit from the shadow creatures, her mother makes her don the dress and then sends her away to the magical lands of Engkantos, a place filled with nature spirits and evil monsters. There Marikit discovers the dress is a map that will guide her to an unknown destination and rite of passage of becoming a full-fledged Diwata. With assistance from a firefly, a cursed boy, and a rich girl who desires freedom, Marikit must find a way home and save her family from a menacing fate. This stunning middle grade fantasy is embroidered with Filipino culture, traditions, and folklore. Lyrical paragraphs and vivid descriptions capture both the enchanting and grim villages and landscapes while also conveying the distinct lore and captivating personalities of the Filipino mythological creatures, gods and goddesses, and spirits that guide and challenge Marikit. This is an emotional adventure of how patience and unconditional love sews all things together. Includes an author’s note and glossary. Copyright © 2022 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois