MERCI SUAREZ CAN'T DANCE Merci Suarez, Book 2

Given its target audience and its perennial themes of changing bodies, preteen lit can be a challenging genre. It can be an even more challenging genre to narrate because tweens can smell a phony from miles away. But Frankie Corzo manages to deliver a believable portrayal of a working-class Latina middle schooler who feels out of place in her predominantly wealthy, white private school. Corzo's remarkable range takes listeners on an emotional roller coaster ride as Merci Suárez navigates her first crush while challenging racist bullies, grappling with economic inequality, and confronting significant changes in family dynamics, specifically her brother's departure for college, her beloved aunt's new relationship, and her grandpa's battle with Alzheimer's. Don't miss this! G.P. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2021]