About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the tricky balance between group loyalty and personal boundaries, or when they feel their own voice is being drowned out by more dominant friends. It is especially resonant for kids experiencing the 'middle school shuffle' where interests change and the desire for social status can sometimes eclipse long-standing friendships. Following Carmen and her tight-knit group of friends, the story centers on the planning of Carmen's quinceañera. When the celebration becomes the subject of a reality TV show, Carmen's authentic desires for her milestone birthday are pushed aside for ratings and drama. This chapter book is perfect for ages 9 to 13, offering a relatable look at how to speak up when you feel like a secondary character in your own life. It provides a wonderful bridge for discussing cultural heritage, the pitfalls of social media and reality TV culture, and the importance of staying true to one's roots.
