Let me start by saying that I am not the target audience for this book. I'm neither YA, nor of Mexican decent.

I am very glad that this book exists. A couple of my students recommended it to me. Now I understand why so many people leave Mexico and why they still revere it even though they aren't returning to live there. I'm a ridiculously nostalgic person and I related to the descriptions of Los Ojos in the way I still think about my grandmother's house or my childhood home.

The main character, Julia, is obnoxious, abrasive, and at times riddled with anxiety. I found her to be very realistic. She also grows up, even though she's so resistant to change. I enjoyed seeing that in her. Her relationship with her family is something I believe many of my students relate strongly to and I hope they benefit from reading Julia's resolution with her mother.

This book does deal with some hard topics. Its on the shelves in my junior high library. It does have instances of strong language sprinkled throughout as well as discussions of sex and genitalia. I don't think that's a reason to shy away from this book though, because those are indeed topics that young adults discuss and wrap their heads around at this age. I'd say it's more for high school readers, grades 9+. Julia is also an atheist, so that might offend some, but she never bashes religion and has no problems exploring it.

Overall, this book wasn't written for me, but I got some important knowledge from it. I believe it is certainly worth reading.