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“Atmospheric and relevant.”

—School Library Journal

“With a unique take on the current political climate, this novel explores finding one’s footing in the adult world and standing behind one’s beliefs.”

—Booklist

“Over the course of the smoothly wrought narrative, Maya encounters immigration issues challenging individuals in her new neighborhood, expands her literary leanings beyond her beloved classics, and pursues a relationship with Jake.”

—Publishers Weekly

The Writing Room

Written by Marcia Argueta Mickelson
Published by Carolrhoda Lab

Immediately after high school graduation, eighteen-year-old Maya is kicked out of her wealthy dad’s NYC home; he prides himself on forcing his kids to “make their own way in the world.” Maya’s mom lives in Guatemala, so Maya crashes with friends while working and trying to land freelance writing gigs.
Maya struggles to find her footing until she gets access to a “writing room,” a shared workspace where she can focus—and get to know the intriguing neighbor, Jake, who’s often there.

When she discovers her dad is bankrolling a virulently anti-immigrant candidate for governor, Maya―the daughter of an immigrant―realizes she can’t continue quietly accepting his choices. She’ll have to take a stand, using the voice she’s found in the writing room.

Primary ISBN: 9798765627716
Publication Date: November 2025
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Young Adult, Age 13 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (New York City NY)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

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

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