Claw Quest (The Cat Prophecies #1) by Jorge Enrique Paz, Nik Korpon
Published by Labyrinth Road on June 9, 2026
ISBN: 0593906284
Genres: Adventure, Cultural / Latin America, Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction
Goodreads

Set in modern-day Colombia, this story is a fun revamp of a classic plot structure about a young teen boy struggling to fit in, only to discover, with the help of other outcasts (and a cat), that he may be the chosen one destined to defeat the forces of evil. Ideal for upper elementary and middle grade readers, Claw Quest stands out for its celebration of Latine culture and its dual use of Spanish and English. The bilingual text should not dissuade non-Spanish readers from enjoying it, as most Spanish words and phrases are translated in context of the story. It is clear that the authors put care and effort to make this story accessible to a vast audience while remaining faithful to Colombian culture. 

The writing is fluid, well-paced, and engaging. Characters feel well fleshed-out with their own uniquely identifiable traits. The main character has Tourette Syndrome, and is an empathetic representation of children with disabilities or neurological conditions who struggle with being bullied. The Juaica, warrior cats whose bodies transform when in their realm of Iguakay, are a fun magical element. However, a weakness of the writing is the description of the Juaica in their magical form. It is hard to tell if the author intended for them to move like humans with cat-like features, or simply like oversized, muscular cats. Either way, this detail likely won’t detract from the readers’ enjoyment of the book’s message that anyone may be the ‘chosen one’ if they choose kindness and embrace their individuality.

This book would be a wonderful addition into a library’s Fantasy Fiction section. The vibrant cover would also look great on a book display! 

Reviewed by Jada Gastia, Williams Elementary School, Oakland, ME