Merci Suárez Changes Gears

Sixth grader Merci Suárez lives in the "Suárez Compound," three houses that her family, her grandparents, and her aunt's family live in, while attending a private school in Florida. Merci's family cannot afford to send her brother (a genius according to Merci) to the private school, so their father paints at the school while the kids do community service to compensate for the costs. Middle school is tough for anyone, but Merci has to deal with a class bully along with helping out the family. Her grandfather has not been himself lately, and although Merci knows that something is wrong, no one will tell her what is happening. This causes her to have to take on more responsibilities, like babysitting her terrible twin cousins, which keeps her from trying out for the soccer team. This book introduces the reader to a close knit, wonderful family who are proud of their heritage and culture and who want to make a difference in the world. Merci is a relatable character who has her faults but who tries to navigate middle school and stay true to herself and her family. This novel is well-written and contains characters and situations that are complex and realistic. The family's culture plays a large role in the text. This novel would be a wonderful addition to any library.