Age: High School
Art: Poetry
LGBTQ: Gay brother
Identity: Dominican American
Tough Issues: Sexual stigmatization, religiously intolerant mother

Acevedo has an impeccable way of writing for her teenage audience. She doesn't shy away from romantic realities and captures teen angst without it being grating.

Watching Xiomara's confidence brighten and bolden as she publicly shares her poetry is extremely heartwarming. And Acevedo's poetry throughout the book is incredible: balanced with diverse styles, not overly complex, and believable.

The power of art is real--lest we forget it as we encourage children to pursue practical careers.