I read this book for a Children and Young Adult Lit. class. I went to NMSU where Jennifer Cervantes teaches, (She came to our class and I got my book signed!) It's a great coming of age story for a young Latina. Being a Latina who grew up in New Mexico I can relate to Izzy. At first I found some of her actions and her stubbornness a bit annoying but I had to remind myself that she is a twelve year old. Of course she would make mistakes at her age. In the end though she matured and learned to forgive her mother for the secrets she kept. The book was great and I look forward to more from this author. 2.5, actually. I was totally on board until the visit to Socorro and the gobbledygook about seeing the truth. Then there was just too much schmoopiness and annoying fatalism.I did like the idea of Izzy's story cards ... could have students write their own beginnings and then have others continue them? Could also develop a lesson on famous first lines, the power of a hook ... relate to music as well. Although I am now so decrepit, the kids probably won't recognize any of the songs that would first come to mind.
Lovely debut novel- happy it's on the MCBA list this year. Have tissues at your disposal.
—MaxTyler
Ugh. Barely 50 pages in and I'm betting this is the worst written MCBA nominee of 2015.
—shipra
Great debut novel - enchanting and magical. But beware, it will make you hungry!
—julia
A well written latino-themed children's book.
—bban
Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!
—Patty
