As much as I loved [Harry Potter], I was looking for characters that represented us more, us being Latinos and people of color in the United States. So I thought it would be an amazing thing to write a magical story for teenagers that’s set in the city, that feels true to the city, and I felt like it was needed,
![Shadowshaper - Daniel José Older Shadowshaper - Daniel José Older](http://booklikes.com/photo/max/220/330/upload/books/3/f/3ff3a64ba98475a59ebb0482d36dd479.jpg)
Daniel José Older, author of the newly released urban fantasyShadowshaper and BookUp instructor. (Via National Book Foundation)
Haven't read the book yet, but it's got some great reviews. I really really hope it lives up to the hype (although to be honest, it's not getting all that much hype). And that cover! Gorgeous!
Anyway, I know a few other people like to look out for this kind of thing as much as I do, so putting it out there. https://www.kirkusreviews.com/features/daniel-jose-older/ has a nice interview too.