Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares is the second thrilling adventure in Tehlor Kay Mejía’s acclaimed middle-grade fantasy series, published under Rick Riordan Presents.
 
After saving her hometown from a terrifying creature, Paola “Pao” Santiago is still struggling to adjust to her new reality—one where monsters from folklore are real. When her estranged father appears in her dreams, begging for help, Pao embarks on a dangerous journey into a forest filled with nightmares, legends, and ancient magic.
 
Blending Latinx folklore, heart-pounding adventure, and themes of friendship and identity, this novel is perfect for readers who love mythology-inspired series like Percy Jackson or Aru Shah. With vivid world-building and a fierce, relatable heroine, Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares is both a page-turning fantasy and a heartfelt story about family and belonging.
 
⭐ Why You’ll Love It
A mythology-inspired adventure rooted in Latinx folklore.
Strong themes of family, friendship, and courage.
Appeals to fans of the Percy Jackson and Aru Shah series.
Features a relatable Latina heroine balancing real-world struggles with magical quests.
🎯 Perfect For
Readers ages 8–12 who enjoy fantasy and mythology.
Fans of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint.
Classrooms and libraries looking to diversify middle-grade fantasy collections.
Young readers interested in Latinx legends and folklore.