
I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter
Description
I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez is a searing, funny, and unforgettable YA novel about grief, identity, and the tightrope between family duty and self‑discovery. After her sister’s sudden death, sixteen‑year‑old Julia Reyes combs through secrets and expectations in Chicago, searching for a way to honor those she loves without losing herself.
A National Book Award Finalist and New York Times bestseller, Sánchez’s breakout novel pairs sharp humor with heart, offering teens and adults a voice that feels true, tender, and brave.
Key Features
- Award recognition: National Book Award Finalist (Young People’s Literature, 2017); New York Times bestseller.
- Edition details: Paperback; 352 pages; Ember (Random House Children’s Books); publication date March 5, 2019; ISBN‑13 9781524700515.
- Setting & voice: First‑person narration set in Chicago; bilingual family dynamics and cultural nuance.
- Classroom‑friendly: Themes of grief, mental health, immigration, and college‑going make it a frequent course and book‑club pick.
Why Choose This Book
- Relatable & real: Gives teens permission to be complicated—and hopeful.
- Discussion‑ready: Big questions about family, future, and identity spark rich conversation.
- Broad appeal: Resonates with YA readers and adults who love contemporary coming‑of‑age stories.
Who It’s For Click or tap to expand
- Teens (Grades 9–12) and adult crossover readers of contemporary YA.
- Book clubs and libraries seeking powerful, voice‑driven fiction.
- Readers exploring grief, mental health, immigration, and college aspirations.
Key Themes Click or tap to expand
- Grief and healing; mental health; family expectations
- Immigration and identity; class and college access
- Friendship, first love, and finding your voice
For Educators Click or tap to expand
- Course fit: ELA 9–12, Contemporary Lit, Ethnic Studies, AP Lang free‑choice reading.
- Discussion prompts: What does “perfect” mean across cultures? How do secrets shape grief?
- Activities: Letter to a future self; neighborhood map of Julia’s Chicago; research brief on college access.
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I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter
Sale price$21.00 CAD