 | Canto contigo : a novel Author: Garza Villa, Jonny | |
| Price: $15.00 | ||
Summary:
When Mariachi star Rafael Alvarez moves to a new school, he anticipates claiming the lead vocalist role, but instead faces a rival with a familiar face as he navigates family issues, competition, and complicated feelings for his rival.
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: UG Reading Level: 5.10 Points: 15.0 Quiz: 523382 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (+) (02/01/24)
School Library Journal (+) (02/28/25)
Booklist (+) (03/01/24)
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (A) (00/04/24)
The Hornbook (00/05/24)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 03/01/2024 *Starred Review* In this contemporary romance, Mexican American Rafie is fuming at his parents for making the family relocate to San Antonio. After the passing of his beloved grandfather (the man who introduced him to guitars and mariachi), Rafie is determined to be lead vocalist of his new high school’s mariachi band and secure their win at the Extravaganza Nacional competition. Things take an unexpected turn when Rafie discovers that Rey, an old flame, goes to the same school and is already the band’s lead vocalist. With an overabundance of ego and confidence, Rafie will stop at nothing to take over, even if that means breaking hearts. As both teens musically battle it out to see who is the best, their attraction to each other becomes undeniable. New friends, family, and a talking calavera help guide Rafie to breakthroughs in his domineering habits and grief. In their third teen romance, Garza Villa orchestrates another masterpiece about queer youth redefining traditional customs in Texas. Readers will empathize with the main characters as they bravely navigate recurring prejudices targeting their BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identities (Rey is trans and receiving hormone therapy). The mention of musicians will leave readers quickly YouTubing songs by Vicente Fernandez, Selena, Bad Bunny, and more. A sweet love story with the positive message that not all change is bad. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.
