Author: Ernesto Cisneros

Pura Belpr Award-winning author Ernesto Cisneros takes readers “back to the future” in this funny and heartfelt time-travel tale about family, grief, and love that stretches across the years. Give to readers who love Erin Entrada Kelly, Gordan Korman, and Jason Reynolds!

Quetzalcatl Castillo–Queso for short–has had an ache in his heart that won’t go away ever since his father’s death. More than anything, he wishes he could spend time with his dad again.

After whispering that wish one night under the light of the moon, Queso wakes up the next morning in 1985. With twelve-year-old Pancho–the kid who will grow up to be his dad.

Even though he has no idea what to do, Queso is just happy to be by his dad’s side again. But while Pancho is confident when scoring on the foosball table or standing up to bullies, he doesn’t think he’s smart enough to reach for his dreams.

If only Pancho believed in himself the way Queso does, who knows what his story could be?

Publisher: HarperCollins
Published: 03/10/2026
Pages: 272
Binding Type: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780063092242

About the Author
Cisneros, Ernesto: –

Ernesto Cisneros was born and raised in Santa Ana, California, where he still teaches. He is the author of Efrn Divided, which won the Pura Belpr Children’s Author Award, and Falling Short. He holds an English degree from the University of California, Irvine; a teaching credential from California State University, Long Beach; as well as a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from National University. As an author, he believes in providing today’s youth with an honest depiction of characters with whom they can identify. The real world is filled with amazing people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. His work strives to reflect that. You can visit him online at ernestocisneros.com.