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“Based on true events in Lila Quintero Weaver’s own 1970s childhood as an Argentinian immigrant in a small Alabama town, My Year in the Middle is a moving story about finding one’s center in the midst of overwhelming external pressure. Lu is believable as a girl who is afraid to “stick [her] neck out too far.”…Any reader who has struggled to find a safe and happy place between polarities will appreciate Weaver’s deep understanding of just how difficult—and rewarding—this can be.”

—Shelf Awareness for Readers, Starred Review

“It’s not always easy standing up for what is right, but sometimes, you just can’t stay in the middle…Young readers will relate to Lu as she navigates friendships, first love, and politics, cheering her on to the finish line. An important and relevant story that will make kids stop and take a look at the world around them.”

—Kirkus Reviews

My Year in the Middle

Written by Lila Quintero Weaver
Illustrated by Lila Quintero Weaver
Published by Candlewick

Sixth-grader Lu Olivera just wants to keep her head down and get along with everyone in her class. The trouble is, Lu’s old friends have been changing lately — acting boy crazy and making snide remarks about Lu’s newfound talent for running track. Lu’s secret hope for a new friend is fellow runner Belinda Gresham.

But in 1970 in Red Grove, Alabama, blacks and whites don’t mix. As segregationist ex-governor George Wallace ramps up his campaign against the current governor, Albert Brewer, growing tensions in the state — and in the classroom — mean that Lu can’t stay neutral about the racial divide at school. Will she find the gumption to stand up for what’s right and to choose friends who do the same?

Primary ISBN: 9780763692315
Publication Date: July 2018
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 08 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (Alabama)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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