About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is navigating a difficult social environment, experiencing targeted harassment, or struggling with questions of cultural authenticity. It is an essential choice for a child who feels isolated by bullying and needs to see a realistic path toward reclaiming their safety and self-worth. Meg Medina offers an unflinching look at Piddy Sanchez, a Latina teen who becomes the target of a bully she has never even met. As the threats move from verbal taunts to physical violence, Piddy must navigate the complicated intersections of school politics, neighborhood loyalty, and her own family history. The novel explores deep emotional themes of fear, shame, and identity, particularly the pressure to perform one's heritage in a specific way. It provides a nuanced look at why victims of bullying often stay silent and how the support of a community can help them find their voice. Parents should be aware that the book deals with intense themes, including physical assault and domestic violence, making it best suited for high school students. It serves as a powerful conversation starter about standing up for oneself while remaining true to one's own values.
