Review Detail

Seventeen-year-old Estela is one of the few Latinas who tested into a prestigious San Francisco public high school. So much is happening in her senior year. She feels less than, as she's only barely passing Spanish. Estela's goal is to get accepted to UC Berkley. She expresses herself best in her poetry. When there is a poetry contest during Latine Heritage Month, she places second behind a non-Latine student. Add to all of this, her family receives an eviction notice. Plus, there's a romance with her Spanish tutor. When some posters are defaced and things become too much, Estela finds escape in her poetry and the community she loves.

What worked: Wowza. Loved the Spanish, the Frisco community shout-out, and the poetry woven throughout. The poetry shows readers Estela's struggles and trials. Her prose gives her peace when everything around her seems to be too much.

Estela is determined, loyal to her friends, and passionate about her studies. She's a multi-layered protagonist, whose story is sure to resonate with many readers. Her friends are there for her, even when things don't go well.

I liked the romance between her and Rojelio, the Spanish tutor. He has his own struggles that he's not upfront about at the beginning of their relationship.

Also, kudos for addressing anxiety and panic attacks. There's still a stigma with these, and the author did a great job showing Estela and how friends come together.

Some trite stereotypes are addressed. Also, the truth about how even today, after Brown vs. the Board of Education, some schools continue to be segregated.

Powerful, lyrical portrayal of a Frisco teen as she navigates a system that tries to keep racism in schools and communities. Estela's journey is one of hope, struggle, and growth.