'Cousins in the Time of Magic' brings history alive with time travel

Emma Otheguy’s novel combines adventure, culture, and history in a thrilling journey through time.

Illustration by Sahar Ajami

By Novanka Laras and Adelina Indah

Cousins in the Time of Magic, by Emma Otheguy; illustrated by Poly Bernatene

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Time travel is a thrilling concept, blending mystery and imagination, but in Emma Otheguy’s Cousins in the Time of Magic, it becomes much more—a journey of cultural discovery, courage, and growth. Otheguy’s novel takes readers on a whimsical yet impactful adventure, following three cousins as they navigate historical events, confront danger, and uncover their family’s deep connection to the past.

The story begins on an ordinary Monday at their scatterbrained but loving Aunt Xía’s house in Miami. Siggy, a budding social media influencer, records a video for a hair product called Mirror-Shine Sheen, while Camila, an avid reader, dives into an animal book. Meanwhile, Jorge, the youngest and most daring of the trio, climbs the garage roof on a dare from a neighborhood rival. Everything changes when Jorge spots Aunt Xía burying a diamond-encrusted sword in a large clay pot in the front yard.

Aunt Xía, a historian at the Latin History Museum, often lectures the cousins about how “history is alive” and “the past speaks.” However, they never expected history to speak so literally—or so vividly.

Their curiosity leads them to the clay pot, or tinajón, where they stumble into a portal that transports them to a strange, eerie beach far from Miami. Three paper boats rest near the shore, seemingly waiting for them. Jorge, ever the risk-taker, jumps into one boat, retrieves the sword, and marvels at its gem-studded blade. His cousins follow, unsure of what lies ahead.

As the cousins ponder the mystery of the island and the sword, Aunt Xía appears, seemingly out of nowhere, frantically urging Jorge to return the weapon. Jorge complies, feeling a surge of electricity as he hands it over. But the moment Aunt Xía takes the sword, a furious wind rises, sweeping her away and leaving the cousins stranded.

Otheguy’s descriptive prose paints a vivid picture of their perilous journey. The trio sets sail in one of the paper-like boats, narrowly evading an ironclad warship firing at them. Along the way, they meet Alfonso, a runaway drummer boy who claims to be a Union soldier searching for his father, a Cuban-born spy captured by Confederate forces. Through Alfonso, the cousins learn they’ve traveled not only hundreds of miles from Miami but also back in time—to 1862, in the midst of the American Civil War.

The cousins soon encounter Oscar, an enslaved boy whose father was “sold on to Cuba.” Oscar’s poignant reminder that “freedom matters everywhere” highlights the novel’s exploration of identity, resilience, and interconnected histories.

As the story unfolds, the cousins discover that Aunt Xía is far more than a quirky historian. She is a time traveler on a vital mission: delivering the magical sword to General Ignacio Zaragoza before the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Zaragoza’s leadership during this pivotal battle, celebrated today as Cinco de Mayo, played a critical role in halting French intervention in Mexico—an event with lasting implications for U.S. history.

The cousins realize their aunt has likely been captured by those who seek to steal the sword for their own purposes. What follows is a daring rescue mission, with the trio determined to save Aunt Xía, help their newfound friends, and ensure the sword reaches Zaragoza in time. Along the way, they grapple with the dangers of war, the complexities of identity, and the importance of preserving history.

Otheguy masterfully weaves historical richness into her action-packed narrative, creating a story that is both entertaining and educational. Her characters grow and evolve throughout the journey, gaining a deeper understanding of their heritage and its influence on the broader world. Siggy’s influencer aspirations take a backseat as she discovers a sense of purpose. Camila, who once found solace in books, learns to embrace real-world adventure. Jorge, ever the daredevil, develops a newfound sense of responsibility and courage.

The novel’s humor and charm shine through, even in its more serious moments. Aunt Xía’s quirks, from her frizzy hair to her habit of disappearing on mysterious “research trips,” add levity to the story. The cousins’ banter and camaraderie make them relatable, drawing readers into their world.

Poly Bernatene’s enchanting illustrations, scattered throughout the book, further enhance its magical quality. These visuals bring the story to life, capturing the wonder and danger of the cousins’ journey. From the paper boats to the chaos of the Civil War, each image complements Otheguy’s vivid storytelling.

The title, Cousins in the Time of Magic, reflects the book’s heartwarming blend of adventure and cultural discovery. While the magical elements captivate readers, the historical context grounds the story, highlighting the significance of events like the Battle of Puebla and the contributions of figures like Zaragoza. Through these narratives, Otheguy emphasizes the interconnectedness of history and the enduring impact of cultural heritage.

Ultimately, Cousins in the Time of Magic is a testament to the power of storytelling. It bridges the past and present, reminding readers that history is not just a series of dates and events but a living, breathing force that shapes our lives. Otheguy’s novel invites readers to see history through a new lens, inspiring curiosity, courage, and a deeper appreciation for the stories that define us.

For young readers and adults alike, Cousins in the Time of Magic is an unforgettable journey through time, culture, and self-discovery. It is a celebration of resilience, connection, and the magic of history, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a story that entertains and enlightens in equal measure.

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