Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE
APPEALS TO: SEVERAL
Ave is 12yo when they and their 9yo brother move from Mexicali to Kansas with their mom. Ave has only half a family, since her father and older sister are staying in Mexico. Ave also feels like they only have half a language, since their English isn't the best. A new school, a new country, and new family dynamics make it hard for Ave to find a place to fit in.
Even though Ave is nonbinary, the focus is on fitting into a new culture without losing your own. The author drew a lot from conversations about people's Mexican heritage, so the dialogue rings true. This would be a good jumping off book to discuss how students from other cultures feel about assimilation or preserving traditions.There are non-translated Spanish phrases that the reader is left to figure out through context clues that adds to the cultural authenticity. Though Ave's parents divorce, the ending is positive and Ave shows what it's like to work through difficult situations. A good companion book to Pimienta's book, "Twin Cities." Ave is a nonbinary Mexican.
Michelle in the Middle
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