The Cursed Carnival and Other Calamities: New Stories About Mythic Heroes

This middle grade anthology from Rick Riordan Presents serves up 10 new stories from the imprint’s contributing authors, including a Celtic mythology–inspired piece by Riordan, who edited the volume. Carlos Hernandez kicks things off with an exuberant romp as characters Sal and Gabi chase a wayward, unicorn-riding classmate through alternate worlds, in the process linking to other tales. Elsewhere, Kwame Mbalia’s Gum Baby takes center stage, battling a ghost capable of erasing Black history; Tehlor Kay Mejia’s Paola Santiago risks everything to help her ailing pet chupacabra; and Yoon Ha Lee’s space-faring fox spirit Min embarks upon a new adventure when she and her ghost brother are sent to spy school. As companion pieces to existing series that nevertheless remain accessible for newcomers, these stories both expand each world and offer readers a full sampling of the imprint’s versatility. With an inclusive range of contributors drawing upon their respective heritages and experiences to craft culturally specific, gratifyingly adventurous tales, there’s a little something for everyone here, like a world tour of wonder and excitement. Ages 8–12. Agent: Nancy Gallt, Gallt & Zacker Literary. (Sept.)