Language: G (0 swears 0 'f'); Mature Content: G; Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: MS - ADVISABLE
APPEALS TO: SEVERAL
The summer between 6th and 7th grade is supposed to be the most fun ever. Cruzita has plans to go to Encore Island - an amusement park in California - with her best friend, Kelli. But her Tio Chuy, the baker at the family panaderia, has passed away, and the family struggles to keep the bakery profitable. There's no money for an expensive day at Encore Island, so she must spend the summer helping at the family business. Her grandmother has arranged violin lessons, which turn out to be Mariachi lessons, and Cruzita is unhappy - although her family is Mexican, neither she nor her parents speak Spanish, and she wants to be a pop star someday, not part of a mariachi band.
Cruzita is certain she can become famous and save her family. I think a lot of kids can relate; they believe if they can just achieve their dreams, everything will be better. I liked Cruzita's journey, from knowing little about her family's Mexican culture to gaining the ability to sing in Spanish, learn an instrument, and show pride in her heritage. There's a good bit of Spanish, in context - Cruzita doesn't speak it either so English only readers won't need a glossary. I did love that Granillo included a play list - which I'm listening to as I write this review, as well as book club or class discussion questions.
Lisa Librarian
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