Rick Riordan Presents: Dawn of the Jaguar, A Shadow Bruja Novel Book 2 (Storm Runner)
#2 of 2 in Shadow Bruja Series
on Goodreads (352)
What’s inside...
Renata Santiago—reluctant high-schooler, newly appointed Guardian of Wisdom, and recovering shadow bruja—thought saving the Maya gods in The Lords of Night would buy her a little peace. Instead, her magic is flickering out and a prophecy called the Dawn of the Jaguar is rumbling to life. When a stolen relic threatens to give the vengeful Lords of Night the upper hand, Ren must travel from the volcano-studded deserts of New Mexico to the depths of Xibalba, the Maya underworld. Alongside old friends, uneasy allies, and one very snarky death god, she races to restore her powers, unravel the prophecy, and keep both mortal and godly worlds from tumbling into darkness.
Character compass
Reyna "Ren" Santiago
Mateo Méndez
Ah-Puch
Kʼukʼulkan (Feathered Serpent)
Discussion points
What does Ren learn about balancing ordinary life with extraordinary duty?
How do the Maya myths enrich the story’s conflicts?
Why is it hard for Ren to ask for help, and how does she overcome that?
Which trial in Xibalba felt most challenging to you and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Invite children to create their own myth-inspired creature.
Compare Ren’s courage to a time your child felt nervous.
Look up real Maya sites mentioned and explore photos together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing heritage
Explanation: Ren’s power resurfaces when she accepts her bruja lineage.
Real-World Application: Kids can explore family stories to strengthen identity.
Example Lesson: Teamwork over solo heroics
Explanation: Ren succeeds only by trusting friends and allies.
Real-World Application: Encourages asking peers for help with school projects.
Example Lesson: Courage despite uncertainty
Explanation: Ren acts even when her magic is unreliable.
Real-World Application: Children learn to try new tasks before feeling ‘ready.’
Example Lesson: Responsible use of power
Explanation: The relic shows how unchecked power harms both worlds.
Real-World Application: Discusses making thoughtful choices with technology or influence.