About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels the heavy weight of family expectations or struggles to voice a dream that differs from what everyone else expects of them. Set in Spain, it tells the story of Manolo, a boy expected to become a legendary bullfighter like the father he never knew, even though his true calling is to heal others as a doctor. It is a profound exploration of the difference between inherited legacy and personal identity. The story beautifully navigates the complex emotions of fear and duty, showing that true bravery is not the absence of fear, but the courage to be honest about who you are. While it centers on the traditional and sometimes violent world of bullfighting, it handles these themes with dignity and philosophical depth. It is an ideal choice for middle schoolers navigating the transition from childhood expectations to adolescent independence, providing a mirror for those who feel like they are living in someone else's shadow.
