Review Detail

Sixteen-year-old Mexican American Miguel Castanada does something so terrible, he can't forgive himself. His mother won't talk to him either. What he did was an accident but still he's sent first to Juvie and then a group home. The judge orders him to keep a journal so others can see how Miguel thinks.

Once at the group home Miguel runs into Mong and Rondell and they break out in an attempt to go to Mexico. But things don't work out as planned.

What I liked about this story was the journal like style that lets the reader get into Miguel's head. Funny, fast paced, this story is sure to appeal to relucant readers. The slang at times does slow down an otherwise engaging tale of a teen trying to find redemption. Miguel isn't the typical cholo wannabe but a teen who loves to read--though at first he hides it from the others in the group home. He also struggles with the whole idea of stealing.

The other characters I had questions about. Though Mong's character was at times fascinating, I wanted to know earlier the reason behind his so-called psychotic behavior. Rondell's African American character seemed a tad bit too stereotypical with him not being able to read and being great at basketball. His patience with Miguel was touching though.

What does work is Miguel's journey to forgive himself. And of course the journal. Plus, I find it always interesting to read a tale from a boy's point of view.

The whole journey and finding friendship in the least likely places will keep readers turning the pages. I know I did!