School Library Journal Review
Gr 6--10--Dominican American eighth grader Steph is struggling to focus on her upcoming New York high school entrance exams because the core subjects don't interest her much; her real passion is art. With encouragement and support from her teacher Ms. Santiago, Steph instead sets her sights on the LaGuardia High School in Manhattan, a public school with a portfolio-based admissions process. LaGuardia seems like a dream to Steph, but there's just one (big) problem: her mother, Mari, would never approve of going to a public school, due to Mari's own bad experiences. Undeterred by the obstacles in front of her, Steph devises a plan to put together her portfolio and convince her mom that she knows what's best for her own high school career. Loosely based on the creator's life, the story convincingly delves into familiar themes surrounding diverging interests in middle school friend groups, wanting to fit in, and trying to find individual happiness amid family pressures. Colorfully vibrant artwork alternates between the micro and the macro: Steph and her friends at school and home are depicted with solid backgrounds and a skillful use of shading, while various New York neighborhoods are shown with impressive detail. Chapters are marked by minimalist colored and numbered circles and early 2000s slang and pop culture references are abundant, while Spanish is present throughout. Supporting and background characters largely appear to be Black, including best friend Tiff, or other people of color. VERDICT A touching and recommended story for offering reassurances that even sticky situations aren't the end of the world.--Alea Perez
Publisher's Weekly Review
Rodriguez's warm and encouraging semi-autobiographical graphic novel debut depicts the challenges of pursuing one's dreams while feeling misunderstood by surrounding community. Circa 2000, 13-year-old artist Steph, who attends a Catholic middle school in the Bronx, is preparing to enter high school with best friends Tiff and Ana. While her protective mother warns her about the dangers of public school, citing her own traumatic childhood experience after emigrating from the Dominican Republic, Steph's supportive art teacher, Ms. Santiago, suggests applying to a Manhattan liberal arts high school to develop her creative talents. Given friends' disparaging comments regarding her aspirations, Steph lies to her peers and mother about her goals and puts together an application portfolio in secret. Distinct details denoting place and time--such as bodega snacks and era-specific sparkly slogan tops--lend verve to the kaleidoscopically colorful illustrations peopled by a largely Latinx-cued cast rendered with animated facial expressions. With sincerity and precision, Rodriguez captures Steph's feelings of frustration with her loved ones and awe at the inherent beauty of the world around her, which she depicts in her art. Ages 9--12. (Apr.)
