"What happens when three children walk into a magical closet and end up in Puerto Rico? Author, María Pérez-Gómez, cleverly weaves Puerto Rican culture, history, and folklore

into a story with unexpected turns and twists as the children, now in animal form, work to help their beloved homeland regain hope after two devastating hurricanes. As with any life

adventure, real or imaginary, what they learn about love, loss, and hope permeates every step. It is a cultural contribution to the genre of children's literature that I recommend to school

libraries and classroom teachers."

-Janyne McConnaughey, PhD, Trauma-Informed Author & Advocate, Author of Trauma in the Pews

"The Magical Closet Mystery by María Pérez-Gómez is a celebration of childhood imagination in the context of Puerto Rican culture. The children are having difficulty coping with the loss of their father and a move from Puerto Rico to Buffalo, NY. Suddenly, they are transformed into animals and transported to Puerto Rico, through their bedroom closet, by the magic of Puerto Rico. The resulting adventure is both entertaining and educational, and illustrates the healing power of art, music, and cultural heritage. Bravo!"-Michael A. Cline, NP

"Bravo! A masterfully written story that weaves together the robust culture and history of Puerto Rico while acknowledging the struggle of moving to a new land and finding hope in

the midst of grief. María uses tactful and descriptive language to spark imagination and produce powerful emotions while evoking a new appreciation for the food, art, music, and

beauty of Puerto Rican culture. This timeless message entwines themes such as courage, empathy, love, suffering, and hope in a single story that will leave children and adults alike with a renewed sense of purpose. The Magical Closet Mystery will surely become a household staple for many, a story that brings new meaning every time it's read."

-Abigail J. Grainge, MS, FNP

"The Magical Closet Mystery is a beautiful, modern-day parable filled with heart, humor, laughter, and love. After reading just the first few paragraphs, the characters come to life and lead you on an adventure where you learn that whatever you hold most dear and keep close to your heart can never truly be lost." -John Anderson, Kenmore Presbyterian Church Elder/Father

"This book is an enchanting and magical story, told through the lens of Puerto Rican culture but readily appreciated by those of any cultural background. Aside from weaving a beautiful

tale of family, friendship, and community, The Magical Closet Mystery seeks to help children who may be dealing with trauma find hope and understanding. It points to the importance of

expressing feelings and connecting to positive aspects of the character's lives and their personal and cultural histories. Ms. Pérez-Gómez communicates these messages through the story of three young Puerto Rican children, now living in Buffalo, who are mourning the death of their father, the loss of their homeland, and the devastation of the hurricanes that swept

through their beloved Puerto Rico. Their lives are changed completely when they discover a portal in their bedroom closet that leads to wild adventure, tender awakening, and

individual and communal healing in the lush Puerto Rican rainforest. Ms. Pérez-Gómez's beautifully descriptive writing style transports the reader to the delightful sights, sounds, and

fragrant scents of Puerto Rico, but her message of courage, connection, and healing is as universal as the transcendent power of love itself."

-Roberta Farkas-Huezo, MSW, Child Welfare Administrator, Erie County Department of Social Services