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“This beautifully written and poignant story will likely appeal to fans of One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia. Yoli is an authentic and relatable narrator whose bravery will capture the hearts of middle grade readers. A historical fiction novel that deftly tackles faith, family relationships, and daily life among social upheaval.”

—School Library Journal

“[Yoli’s] a deeply faithful and introspective character, someone whose strong voice and inner world reveal how her belief in God offers both solace and struggle. . . . A resonant story that beautifully captures the complexities of faith, family, and growing up during turbulent times.”

—Kirkus Reviews

Yoli’s Favorite Things

Written by Patricia Santana
Published by Margaret Ferguson Books

Twelve-year-old Yolanda Sahagún, an aspiring nun raised by strict Mexican immigrant parents, likes to envision her family of nine siblings as the von Trapps from her favorite movie, The Sound of Music. But a larger-than-life family isn’t the only thing Yoli has in common with her fictional friends—she, too, is coming of age as war looms large.

In Yoli’s household, rules define everything—especially those about what the Sahagún daughters are old enough to do, like no talking to boys on the phone. But there are no rules on the battlefield, and Yoli is grown enough to understand that her draft-eligible big brother (her favorite brother!) could be killed in the war. Determined to protect him, Yoli makes a pact with God. But what happens if God doesn’t keep his end of the bargain?

Set against a rich historical backdrop of the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, Patricia Santana’s heartfelt middle grade novel balances weighty themes with warm family dynamics and a captivating voice that’s sure to be a favorite with fans of character-driven historical fiction, as well as contemporary readers who can relate to the challenges of just living their lives when it feels like the world is on fire.

Primary ISBN: 9780823459483
Publication Date: September 2025
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook
Middle Grade, Age 09 or older

Community Represented:

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

Setting: United States (San Diego CA)

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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