| Author: | Tehlor Kay Mejia |
| Isbn: | 9781368049344 |
| Pub Date: | August 3, 2021 |
| Publisher: | Rick Riordan Presents |
| Genre: | Middle grade fiction, fantasy, paranormal |
| Followed By: | Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows |
| Preceded By: | Paola Santiago and the River of Tears |
Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares is a 2021 middle grade fantasy novel by Tehlor Kay Mejia. It is the second novel in the Paola Santiago series, preceded by Paola Santiago and the River of Tears (2020) and followed by Paola Santiago and the Sanctuary of Shadows (2022).
The series follows Paola Santiago, a space-obsessed nerd whose friend disappears after walking by a forbidden river. Paola, along with her other friend Dante, must venture there to find her, and meet the Niños de la Luz, a group of children who have gone missing.
Kirkus Reviews highlighted how the novel "is peppered with conversations about and instances demonstrating the vulnerability of minority populations around police and in health care," providing examples of different characters' new connections to various social justice issues.[1] Kirkus Reviews also said, "An interesting twist uplifts the ending of this second series entry".
Samantha Zaboski, writing for Shelf Awareness, noted, "Tehlor Kay Mejia impresses with this moving middle-grade fantasy deeply rooted in Mexican American culture. Her Latinx cast criticizes racism and police bias [...] while Mejia incorporates myth [...] and magic [...]. Pao's beautiful problem-solving mind and personal growth [...] shine, and her tension-relieving quips [...] temper heartbreaking moments." Zaboski concluded by saying, "Paola Santiago and the Forest of Nightmares is a satisfying follow-up, full of heart and humor that celebrates Mexican heritage, family and forgiveness."[2]
Booklist also reviewed the novel[3] and the audiobook.[4]
A live action Disney+ series was announced on February 8, 2022.[5]