The Secret Story of Sonia Rodriguez

Sonia Rodriguez was born in the United States, but her parents are Mexican immigrants who came to California before she was born. Her father has three Social Security numbers, her mother is pregnant (again), and neither of them speaks English. Sonia's mother spends most of her time in bed, watching soap operas, and letting Sonia clean up after her brothers. Sonia's father works dutifully to support his family, but he knows that his daughter's dreams are bigger than making tamales for family get-togethers. When Sonia attempts to put school work before her familia, her mother decides that it's time for Sonia to visit her grandmother in Mexico to learn the ways of the old world. While in Mexico, Sonia gets to know her wise grandmother and her cousin Maria, who teach her that while familia is important, the most important thing is to follow your heart. Sonia returns to the States determined to succeed in school, but the birth of her new twin siblings, inappropriate advances from her drunk uncle (Drunkle), and a forbidden relationship with an El Salvadorian boy push school to the back burner. If only Sonia can find the time to cook dinner, secretly meet with her boyfriend, avoid her Drunkle, AND finish her homework, she just might be able to graduate from high school. . . .

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Published: 02/09/2010
ISBN: 9781423130277
Pages: 320
Weight: 0.45lbs
Size: 7.50h x 5.20w x 0.80d
Award: Nevada Young Readers' Award - Nominee
Award: Florida Teens Read - Nominee
Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 126922 / Secret Story of Sonia Rodriguez
Reading Level: 5 / Interest Level: Upper Grade / Point Value: 9