“Erin Entrada Kelly is supremely perceptive, as always, and Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey is utterly endearing! Anyone who has ever felt shy or shaky will find a soul mate and an inspiration in Marisol.” - Annie Barrows, New York Times–bestselling author of the Ivy + Bean books
“From the author of the Newbery Award–winning Hello, Universe, this perceptive story focuses on Marisol, an imaginative Filipina American girl . . . The first volume in the Maybe Marisol series is an immediately engaging and ultimately rewarding choice for readers moving up to chapter books.” - Booklist (starred review)
“A sweet story of a girl trying to overcome her fears and anxieties. Marisol’s story also touches on friendship, bullies, siblings, having a parent who lives away from home, and having a parent from another country. . . . There’s no maybe about it; readers will enjoy this charming story.” - Kirkus Reviews
“Newbery Medalist Kelly once again shows a knack for capturing a childlike perspective as Marisol navigates her feelings: avoiding a school bully and navigating her identity, finding the courage to ride her bike past a frightening dog, and debating whether to admit her fears . . . There is no calamitous “do-or-die” moment that forces Marisol to confront her fear; instead, Kelly lets Marisol ease her way through it, in the process offering a clear message about doing things in one’s own time.” - Publishers Weekly
“Hilarious and heart-melting—Marisol charmed me! More, please.” - Sara Pennypacker, New York Times-bestselling author of Pax
“Marisol is a young Filipina living in Louisiana, while also residing in her own little world. She notices things that most people would overlook . . . Endearing, relatable Marisol is also plagued by anxieties of all sorts. This story contains adorable yet thought-provoking conversations . . . A great read for upper elementary children. With occasional, whimsical illustrations, it will keep even the most reluctant readers entertained.” - School Library Journal (starred review)
“Marisol worries about a lot of things, and she also worries that she worries so much . . . Kelly offers a compassionate portrait of an anxious kid, and Marisol’s inner dialogue—and particularly her inner criticism—will likely ring true for any kid who’s been accused of being too sensitive.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Kelly reaches out to a younger audience in an approachable chapter book about thoughtful worrier Marisol. . . . She can’t imagine what it feels like to give a book report without quaking, or to visit her extended family in the Philippines—much less what it would feel like to be brave enough to climb the tree. . . . The story’s tension is built from the skillful accumulation of small moments and the strong character development. Frequent delightfully quirky line drawings by the author add humor and personality.” - Horn Book (starred review)
“A delightful, relatable story about friendship and courage . . . Anyone who has ever had trouble feeling brave will be empowered by Marisol.” - NBC News
“A book of truths, witty insights and metaphors, and — for the first time — Kelly’s own illustrations, which are lightheartedly poignant.” - New York Times