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kimal2028's review
3.0
I read it but it was kind of mid...
Had good things about a character learning to embrace themselves, but not much else.
Had good things about a character learning to embrace themselves, but not much else.
jadatrack's review
challenging
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
hellastrong's review
4.0
this is not a perfect book -- it's trying to do too much, IMO, and it has kids talking like adults about big topics just as they're starting to learn about them -- but I loved seeing the representation of a LatinX ADHD kid who's trying to deal with everything life is throwing at her, and I really appreciated the way it blended Spanish and English without leaving me (with my very limited Spanish vocabulary) completely in the dark. Part of me is also grappling with my idea of when a book is "doing too much." I mean, kids are actually facing all of these issues, sometimes all at once. It feels artificial in a book, but who am I to say that it isn't real life for a lot of kids.
hamckeon's review
4.0
I got an ARC of this book at a conference. I find all of Cartaya's books so poignant and relevant to kids. I love how this one covers important political topics from a middle school point of view. I will be recommending this book in my classroom.
katieproctorbooks's review against another edition
4.0
Emilia is 12, has ADHD, a dad just getting back from a deployment overseas, a controlling but loving abuela, and a good friend named Gus. She and her classmates fall head on into an issue of school redistricting and there’s a lot of tension in the community. I really appreciated all the information Pablo Cartaya shares about immigration, PTSD, ADHD, but my only complaint is that it seemed like there were too many issues to be able to focus. But, I think it’s an important read for sure.
hidingzeus's review
3.0
Read for OBOB potential. Great story of dealing with a parent who has PTSD and comes back from a war different than what you remember.
megpancoast's review
emotional
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
jenniekay24's review
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
kallbri's review
5.0
As a middle grades educator, this book was a wonderful read, and will be the perfect classroom addition! Cartaya addresses ADHD, PTSD, civil discourse, friendships, culture, community involvement, education strains, and so much more. I also loved how he did center a romantic relationship in this novel. Highly recommend!