Book Review: Miss Quinces

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Fajardo, K. (2022). Miss Quinces: A graphic novel. Graphix.  ISBN: 1338535595

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

This graphic novel shares the story of Sue, a girl who refused to have a quinceanera until she made a deal with her mom and agreed to take part of the process. Throughout the story, we see Sue’s journey as she takes part in planning the quinceanera she didn’t want and managing the expectations of her family and this cultural transition into womanhood.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This story started off slow for me, however, as I kept reading I really began to like Sue’s character. I felt Sue’s character is very relatable and I loved how Fajardo really incorporated Sue’s unique personality and style into the story. From incorporating black into her dress, to switching out the heels to boots, these changes really made this story a must read. Although I didn’t have a quinceanera, I attended/participated in several and I was instantly reminded of everything that goes into this celebration. From finding a dress, to choreographing the dance that is performed in front of family and friends. As I read through each page, I was instantly reminded how culturally important this celebration really is. Fajardo did an amazing job of capturing the essence of a quinceanera and the significance behind the celebration. For example, when abuela was sharing details with Sue about the doll that would be presented to her. Her mention of the embroidery reminded me of how detailed those dolls are. I also liked how Fajardo shared the meaning behind a Quinceanera. She did a great job of explaining that it is a party, but its also a family tradition that celebrates the transition into womanhood.  This story also has the different elements of fiction, it has characters, a well-developed setting, conflicts and a resolution making this story easy to read and follow along with. 

The illustrations are great. Fajardo’s illustrations perfectly match the novel and how Sue was feeling throughout the story. Sue’s facial expressions were priceless! My favorite illustration in this novel was Sue’s face when she saw the “blob of pink vomit” aka her quince dress. I also thought Fajardo did a good job of representing the Latin culture through her illustrations.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Miss Quinces/Srta. Quinces is the first graphic novel published by Scholastic/Graphix to be simultaneously released in English and Spanish edition!

Starred review in School Library Journal “This title will be enjoyed by voracious fans of coming-of-age graphic novels.”

Starred review in Booklist: “lively and full of emotion…”

Starred review in Publishers Weekly: "Fajardo's sympathetic look at a girl learning that she can be herself and still cherish family tradition celebrates the beauty of Honduras with vivid, summery art."

5. CONNECTIONS

*Have students research how different countries celebrate the transition from a child to womanhood/manhood. Have students create a presentation they can share with the class.    

* Have create comic book strips to retell the story. Remind them to include the key parts of the story using sequential order.

*Other graphic novels

Gonzalez, C. D., & Epstein, G. (2022). Invisible: A graphic novel. Graphix.  

ISBN: 1338194542

Lloyd, M. W., & Nutter, M. M. (2021). Allergic. Graphix, an imprint of Scholastic. ISBN: 1338568906

Book review completed for SHSU MLA course. 

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