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They Call Me Blanca
by Laura A. Diaz
*Currently seeking representation for her New Young Adult Novel. Most importantly, she is seeking an editor that likes Blanca's story and is passionate enough about it to help her make it what it needs to be for the market.
I'd like to introduce you to Michelina DélaCruz .
Michelina DelaCruz:
My name is Michelina DélaCruz.Meet me at the crossroad where Faith meets Diversity and the Supernatural.
"They call me Blanca. That’s all. That means …well… white. They could call me, güera. That’s the slang for white girl. I’m glad they don’t, that’s worse. Most of them probably don’t even know my real name. I can’t stand my real name anyways, so…está todo bien. I’m sixteen and I live in Stockton, California. Everyone I know is Black, Mexican, or Asian.
Me? Well, my mom is white and my pops was Mexican, so…what does that make me… no se. Where I come from? Not knowing is a dangerous place for a person to even try existing in. I’m on my way to trying to fix all that tho’. Last night I completed ‘step one’ when I did my roll-in, or jump-in, however you wanna call it. That’s initiation para you gringos."
Audience: Young Adult, Latina, Teen, cross-cultural, urban fantasy, Christian
Synopsis: As bi-racial teen living with her single white mother in Stockton, California; Michelina struggles to find her place in a confusing and often hostile world. She doubts the existence of God let alone a God that cares. She feels her only way 'out' is to ‘court-in.’
In a tragic twist of events, she is brutally beaten and abandoned like garbage on the railroad track. As a train thunders down the track she doesn't even try to move. All she ever wanted was to fit in. Longing for the peace of nothing-ness she lets the train barrel her down.
So why does she wake up in 1954, seeing through the eyes of a Mexican American teen, who just happens to be the Abuela/grandmother she’s never met?
This cutting-edge, multicultural, YA novel rips through the barrier of the printed page and allows you to experience Michelina’s eye-opening adventure through the eyes of others; as Michelina discovers that not only is there a God, but the depth of His love is so great that He is willing to reach down, snatch her up, and let her see for herself. The question is: What will she choose now, or does she have a choice anymore?
Read for FREE at:
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36078/they-call-me-blanca/
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Christian Critique and Review:
Finally, I have found the time to read this exceptional book. Actually its a WOW book. A book about survival, relationships, sacrifice and restoration. A girl who is not sorry for herself, who understands her neighborhood, her homegirls and the guys they hang out with. Already, we care for the quiet Blanca bruised and beaten in a hospital bed because we see a driven individual with great inner strength—a misfit desperate to fit in. One tough chola, she won’t stay down.
Her mother, a firm advocate for Jesus, is so giving, its hard not to feel her pain. She also has a friend in Pastor Mike. The tone of this book is unique; the reader not only reads the book but hears it spoken. I love the language, natural and distinctive. The Spanish overtones are just perfect the way they are, it couldn't be written in any other way.
Bless little David! I have to say, I did shed a tear of joy at this. Priceless. But the abuse in the classroom had me gasping. I was so glad when David's mother comforted a little girl, confused over what she had done wrong. This shows the experience of an author with teaching experience and the love of children. Now David is 6ft 3ins and muscular. I’m not sure what is the matter with Blanca, I would go to church with him in a heartbeat! But she hurts him, a Ms. Sidakis type of hurt.
So many emotions run through this book, it’s hard to put it down. We root for Blanca and we want to know what happens. Each chapter has a hook of its own. Can God save a chola? Find out, you’ll be extremely glad you did. High stars for great storytelling. SMT Stibbe ~Author of Chasing Pharaohs.
*Take a peek at Chasing Pharoahs:
http://www.authonomy.com/books/28670/chasing-pharaohs/
What others are saying:
They Call Me Blanca is one of the best examples of Young Adult fiction you are likely to find here, or in your local bookstore. Author Laura A. Diaz presents us with a perfect view of Hispanic culture that many readers are probably unfamiliar with, tells a vivid and gripping story, and ultimately helps to promote a positive message, which is pretty much everything YA should and could do in the right hands.
Michelina DélaCruz is an ideal main character. She’s tough and unapologetic, yet we as readers get to peek behind the curtain and see why she is that way. She’s a very sympathetic and real-seeming person who we instantly care about. When bad things happen to her, we feel it, sometimes painfully.
Pacing is correct for a YA title. The plot moves forward from the typical themes of trying to fit in to the supernatural time-traveling part of the story where Michelina really begins to grow as a person. Readers won’t have a chance to get bored. The writing is crisp and literally dripping in culture, to the point that we are often introduced to both English and Spanish descriptions of people and places.
They Call me Blanca should have no trouble at all finding an audience once published. And it’s a novel that wholly deserves to make it into print. Doing so would help to add credibility to the entire YA genre, and I believe could do a lot of good in the world too.
John Breeden II
Old Number Seven
.... I think what you have here is acutely accomplished and striking...commercial benefit of being extremely high concept in its design. The social realism meets time travel is, quite simply, genius in its originality and scope.... I say this as a screenwriter and editor who has her fair share of material on a daily basis to read from.
...it is a fundamentally pro-Christian work. I have to confess that I am not religious... usually steer clear of Christian writings. That said...the sense of (Michelina's) dual identity is both literal and metaphorical and we immediately feel for this character as someone who is torn between her need for identity and her need to belong .
This is, of course, exacerbated by her dual-heritage...the Cookie and Shortie subplot and the terrifying brutal reality of their subculture was wonderfully handled.. . incredibly well written, with a visceral quality that doesn’t shy away from the facts and are all the more successful because of it. These scenes ( are covered) with a blow by blow, moment by moment account, giving an immediacy which is both compelling and repelling by turn..... As a book aimed at the YA market...you have a lot of issues that would resonate.
The unique time-travel scenes have a lovely quality...nostalgic in the same way that a Polaroid is nostalgic...slightly retro, whimsical feel...in language and imagery.
( Although not someone who reads Christian books) I felt inspired by the Christian edict of walking in someone’s shoes in order to understand them more fully. Hence we have Michelina experiencing life as several characters (not in control or actively participating but only along for the ride so to speak.) Hearing, feeling, and viewing life through the eyes of those she perhaps has never fully understood or related to ...
This is an extremely powerful book that touched me in a surprisingly deep way above and beyond whatever its particular philosophy might be.
~Wiz Wharton Author of : A Small Death
http://www.authonomy.com/books/38849/a-small-death/
Brilliant! So many things can be said about a story. But I look for two things. Within the first 10 pages, do I get it? And do I like it? I got it and I like it. Strong character. Great writing style. And it promises so much. Well done.
Kevin McGill~ Author of Nikolas and Company
* Check out his amazing YA Novel:
http://www.nikolasandco.com/
One word- AMAZING!! This is one of the best books I have read... I couldn't put this one down. As a student of the Spanish language I enjoyed the mix of Spanglish and the insight into mixed hispanic culture in the U.S. I think this book is powerful and will go far.
Blanca is a deep character. Lost in her heritage in the states, she's just trying to make it day to day in a world she doesn't fit into completely. I really felt for this character. Other characters like David, his mom, Shortie, Cookie, and Nacho are all memorable and sing off the page. Everything is vividly written and jumps off the page. I would love to have this book sitting on my "real" bookshelf. Fantastic piece of literature this one.
I like real and this is what this book offers from the street crew to Blanca's view of Christians. I love this book!
Christian Rogue~Author of Beastia
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36825/beastia/
Every now and again I pick up a book and, as I read through it, I feel as though I have died and got into heaven without having to go through the awful business of dying to get there. They Call Me Blanca is one of those books that transports the reader effortlessly to realms of literary enjoyment far beyond mere earthly pleasures.
I sense I will not be alone in according this story much praise. Indeed, praise unstinted: for the quality of writing, scene setting, reflective tone, ambiance and mood. Bianca's character definition is outstanding... The internal dynamic and creative tension is consistent throughout.... Here is Spanish without tears for those none native to the language as it is never intrusive but always complimentary to the text. Seis estrellas - ****** Tony Brady - SCENES FROM AN EXAMINED LIFE - Books 1,2 & 3.
http://www.authonomy.com/books/17490/scenes-from-an-examined-life/
I ... have had fun looking around the Christian site at the different books. I stopped on yours as I immediately related to the opening line description to your book. My last name is Martinez, obviously from my dad. My mother was a redheaded, green eyed beauty from back East. I had the dark hair and the brown eyes, but I looked all white with the last name "Martinez". I lived in the Chino/Corona area of Southern California, (Chola ville) I related right away with your character. I moved out of that area as a twenty year old and never looked back. Boy, did that story bring back some memories! Thanks for the good read!
Lynn Campbell~ author of TheChair
http://www.authonomy.com/books/39504/the-chair/
Right from the start I knew you had major talent. Just the way you put things here and there are extraordinary. And you don't go rambling on in Spanish. You keep it simple so the normal person could understand what it means. You are a pro and I think you know it. If you don't, you do now. You have a great lead character, already I feel I know who she is (I am also half-White, half-Mexican), and you put great images in the reader's head while reading the story. I feel like I am right there with the girl. Overall, just loved it! ~ Tony Ortiz author of My Friends Are All Dead People http://www.amazon.com/HMD-Tony-J-Ortiz/dp/1453553770/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1324411443&sr=1-6
Brash, fresh, candid, and excellent, Ms. Diaz. Which is why I featured 'They Call Me Blanca' on my website and blog. ~Eponymous Rox author of Bot http://www.authonomy.com/books/35441/bot/
There is a definite market for your novel. I love that you draw upon Mexican culture and infuse the novel with a fresh, creative quality. It's a breath of fresh air instead of reading about the all-American teenager in almost every book you pick up. Lina - as the protagonist - is easy to identify with. Her voice is distinct and you get a feel for who she is early on in the opening chapter without having to sift halfway through the novel wondering, who is Lina?
A winner!~ Christopher Penn-Wright author of Opening Night
http://www.authonomy.com/books/39120/opening-night/
This is good work! Blanca is one interesting chola, with powerful repressed feelings, and signs of indifference when she likes someone -- introverted like a teenager, yet ultra sensitive as any spanish teenager.... you have a powerful voice. The story is current and authentic, and it will serve an audience well to find out what goes on in so many families, schools, social circles. Young people today are hard to understand, yet Blanca´s story is so very revealing. Well done.
Stars and cheers for you.~ Elina Castro-Almeyra author of Clash
http://www.authonomy.com/books/33945/clash/
This is a brave book that licks along at a great pace. It feels completely genuine, as if you are talking to me, which is good for a book. Easy to pick off a shelf and read straightaway. A wonderful achievement.~Fran Macilvey, Trapped
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36740/trapped/
This is amazing, I started reading the first chapter and before I knew it I was one chapter five. My dad is from panama so seeing all the Spanish in your story was really cool...granted I can't speak any of it but I think it is awesome when an author can blend it in so seamless. Your character has depth to her and I absolutely love that about her. I really think that this can go far and you're taking care of two fan bases at once. ~Dakota Valasquez author of Din
http://www.authonomy.com/books/38314/din-the-elementalist-s-chronicles/
Was drawn in completely. The hispanic phrases and words scattered throughout the text helped me to better understand the character in her own world. Blanca is presented as an honest and real character.
Blanca's conflict is one that is well understood by all people. We all have experienced the feeling of not fitting in and the struggle of being different than everyone else in one way or another.~Julie Van Meter author of Pursuing the Peaceful Path
http://www.authonomy.com/books/35856/pursuing-the-peaceful-path-devotions-of-faith/
"You know, when this is over, maybe I'll at least feel like I fit in somewhere." Captures the sadness nicely without beating the reader over the head with it. I see why this is so popular. Voyueristic in away, it allows people to step into a world that's likely right outside of their front door, but they can experience it from the safety of their couch.~ Bill Scott author of Haktaw Heart
http://www.authonomy.com/books/21080/haktaw-heart-/
I was really impressed by the realistic voice...Peppering the narrative with Spanish and slang really brought the character alive to me and made me feel like she was being "real." I was drawn in by her story and the way she opened up to me as the reader.
You can't help but read on when you start this story because its narrator draws you in with her candidness and authenticity. ~ Rena (Bunderful) author of Master of the Miracles
http://www.authonomy.com/books/34610/master-of-the-miracles/
It's a friendly, relaxed, aware, and matter-of-fact one, which I think is perfect for telling the difficult and, at times, disturbing story she is telling. It serves to 'normalize' what we are reading, so we can read it and not feel overwhelmed by the brutality of her life. There are times when it actually seems as though she cares about the reader, telling us not to worry or panic and what-not, which I thought was neat. This is a very engaging story with an important message.
I like the storyline a lot and it will be interesting to see where Blanca goes from here. Thanks for posting such a unique book. I am so proud to find a good book containing strong Christian themes... ~Dyane Forde author of The Eagles Gift
http://www.authonomy.com/books/35921/the-eagle-s-gift/
I love (this) story!! I have taught many Hispanic students, and they really want books about modern-day kids like them. Your story will take the reader from (real life that is hard and hurts) to a better place.~Audrey Bennett author of Forgiveness Fits
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36529/forgiveness-fits/
Your story sucked me right in and I couldn't stop. My heart goes out to Blanca. Many teens face peer pressure and indentity crisis... Blanca is so focused on pleasing her peers, she has completely lost who she is. But, despite the fact that she is almost a shell of the person ( God has meant her to be), Blanca has an amazing ( and unforgettable) voice!
She is strong and independent, yet vulnerable and helpless at the same time. I usually don't read anything labeled "Christian," but this book truly has a message teens, parents of teens, and anyone who has ever been a teen, can appreciate. You've captured a true picture not only of life on the street, but a true picture of life for any teen (rich or poor) who is struggling to fit in. Great job!~ Tricia Drammeh author of The Claiming Words
http://www.authonomy.com/books/33692/the-claiming-words/
I'd like to introduce you to Michelina DélaCruz .
Michelina DelaCruz:
My name is Michelina DélaCruz.Meet me at the crossroad where Faith meets Diversity and the Supernatural.
"They call me Blanca. That’s all. That means …well… white. They could call me, güera. That’s the slang for white girl. I’m glad they don’t, that’s worse. Most of them probably don’t even know my real name. I can’t stand my real name anyways, so…está todo bien. I’m sixteen and I live in Stockton, California. Everyone I know is Black, Mexican, or Asian.
Me? Well, my mom is white and my pops was Mexican, so…what does that make me… no se. Where I come from? Not knowing is a dangerous place for a person to even try existing in. I’m on my way to trying to fix all that tho’. Last night I completed ‘step one’ when I did my roll-in, or jump-in, however you wanna call it. That’s initiation para you gringos."
Audience: Young Adult, Latina, Teen, cross-cultural, urban fantasy, Christian
Synopsis: As bi-racial teen living with her single white mother in Stockton, California; Michelina struggles to find her place in a confusing and often hostile world. She doubts the existence of God let alone a God that cares. She feels her only way 'out' is to ‘court-in.’
In a tragic twist of events, she is brutally beaten and abandoned like garbage on the railroad track. As a train thunders down the track she doesn't even try to move. All she ever wanted was to fit in. Longing for the peace of nothing-ness she lets the train barrel her down.
So why does she wake up in 1954, seeing through the eyes of a Mexican American teen, who just happens to be the Abuela/grandmother she’s never met?
This cutting-edge, multicultural, YA novel rips through the barrier of the printed page and allows you to experience Michelina’s eye-opening adventure through the eyes of others; as Michelina discovers that not only is there a God, but the depth of His love is so great that He is willing to reach down, snatch her up, and let her see for herself. The question is: What will she choose now, or does she have a choice anymore?
Read for FREE at:
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36078/they-call-me-blanca/
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Christian Critique and Review:
Finally, I have found the time to read this exceptional book. Actually its a WOW book. A book about survival, relationships, sacrifice and restoration. A girl who is not sorry for herself, who understands her neighborhood, her homegirls and the guys they hang out with. Already, we care for the quiet Blanca bruised and beaten in a hospital bed because we see a driven individual with great inner strength—a misfit desperate to fit in. One tough chola, she won’t stay down.
Her mother, a firm advocate for Jesus, is so giving, its hard not to feel her pain. She also has a friend in Pastor Mike. The tone of this book is unique; the reader not only reads the book but hears it spoken. I love the language, natural and distinctive. The Spanish overtones are just perfect the way they are, it couldn't be written in any other way.
Bless little David! I have to say, I did shed a tear of joy at this. Priceless. But the abuse in the classroom had me gasping. I was so glad when David's mother comforted a little girl, confused over what she had done wrong. This shows the experience of an author with teaching experience and the love of children. Now David is 6ft 3ins and muscular. I’m not sure what is the matter with Blanca, I would go to church with him in a heartbeat! But she hurts him, a Ms. Sidakis type of hurt.
So many emotions run through this book, it’s hard to put it down. We root for Blanca and we want to know what happens. Each chapter has a hook of its own. Can God save a chola? Find out, you’ll be extremely glad you did. High stars for great storytelling. SMT Stibbe ~Author of Chasing Pharaohs.
*Take a peek at Chasing Pharoahs:
http://www.authonomy.com/books/28670/chasing-pharaohs/
What others are saying:
They Call Me Blanca is one of the best examples of Young Adult fiction you are likely to find here, or in your local bookstore. Author Laura A. Diaz presents us with a perfect view of Hispanic culture that many readers are probably unfamiliar with, tells a vivid and gripping story, and ultimately helps to promote a positive message, which is pretty much everything YA should and could do in the right hands.
Michelina DélaCruz is an ideal main character. She’s tough and unapologetic, yet we as readers get to peek behind the curtain and see why she is that way. She’s a very sympathetic and real-seeming person who we instantly care about. When bad things happen to her, we feel it, sometimes painfully.
Pacing is correct for a YA title. The plot moves forward from the typical themes of trying to fit in to the supernatural time-traveling part of the story where Michelina really begins to grow as a person. Readers won’t have a chance to get bored. The writing is crisp and literally dripping in culture, to the point that we are often introduced to both English and Spanish descriptions of people and places.
They Call me Blanca should have no trouble at all finding an audience once published. And it’s a novel that wholly deserves to make it into print. Doing so would help to add credibility to the entire YA genre, and I believe could do a lot of good in the world too.
John Breeden II
Old Number Seven
.... I think what you have here is acutely accomplished and striking...commercial benefit of being extremely high concept in its design. The social realism meets time travel is, quite simply, genius in its originality and scope.... I say this as a screenwriter and editor who has her fair share of material on a daily basis to read from.
...it is a fundamentally pro-Christian work. I have to confess that I am not religious... usually steer clear of Christian writings. That said...the sense of (Michelina's) dual identity is both literal and metaphorical and we immediately feel for this character as someone who is torn between her need for identity and her need to belong .
This is, of course, exacerbated by her dual-heritage...the Cookie and Shortie subplot and the terrifying brutal reality of their subculture was wonderfully handled.. . incredibly well written, with a visceral quality that doesn’t shy away from the facts and are all the more successful because of it. These scenes ( are covered) with a blow by blow, moment by moment account, giving an immediacy which is both compelling and repelling by turn..... As a book aimed at the YA market...you have a lot of issues that would resonate.
The unique time-travel scenes have a lovely quality...nostalgic in the same way that a Polaroid is nostalgic...slightly retro, whimsical feel...in language and imagery.
( Although not someone who reads Christian books) I felt inspired by the Christian edict of walking in someone’s shoes in order to understand them more fully. Hence we have Michelina experiencing life as several characters (not in control or actively participating but only along for the ride so to speak.) Hearing, feeling, and viewing life through the eyes of those she perhaps has never fully understood or related to ...
This is an extremely powerful book that touched me in a surprisingly deep way above and beyond whatever its particular philosophy might be.
~Wiz Wharton Author of : A Small Death
http://www.authonomy.com/books/38849/a-small-death/
Brilliant! So many things can be said about a story. But I look for two things. Within the first 10 pages, do I get it? And do I like it? I got it and I like it. Strong character. Great writing style. And it promises so much. Well done.
Kevin McGill~ Author of Nikolas and Company
* Check out his amazing YA Novel:
http://www.nikolasandco.com/
One word- AMAZING!! This is one of the best books I have read... I couldn't put this one down. As a student of the Spanish language I enjoyed the mix of Spanglish and the insight into mixed hispanic culture in the U.S. I think this book is powerful and will go far.
Blanca is a deep character. Lost in her heritage in the states, she's just trying to make it day to day in a world she doesn't fit into completely. I really felt for this character. Other characters like David, his mom, Shortie, Cookie, and Nacho are all memorable and sing off the page. Everything is vividly written and jumps off the page. I would love to have this book sitting on my "real" bookshelf. Fantastic piece of literature this one.
I like real and this is what this book offers from the street crew to Blanca's view of Christians. I love this book!
Christian Rogue~Author of Beastia
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36825/beastia/
Every now and again I pick up a book and, as I read through it, I feel as though I have died and got into heaven without having to go through the awful business of dying to get there. They Call Me Blanca is one of those books that transports the reader effortlessly to realms of literary enjoyment far beyond mere earthly pleasures.
I sense I will not be alone in according this story much praise. Indeed, praise unstinted: for the quality of writing, scene setting, reflective tone, ambiance and mood. Bianca's character definition is outstanding... The internal dynamic and creative tension is consistent throughout.... Here is Spanish without tears for those none native to the language as it is never intrusive but always complimentary to the text. Seis estrellas - ****** Tony Brady - SCENES FROM AN EXAMINED LIFE - Books 1,2 & 3.
http://www.authonomy.com/books/17490/scenes-from-an-examined-life/
I ... have had fun looking around the Christian site at the different books. I stopped on yours as I immediately related to the opening line description to your book. My last name is Martinez, obviously from my dad. My mother was a redheaded, green eyed beauty from back East. I had the dark hair and the brown eyes, but I looked all white with the last name "Martinez". I lived in the Chino/Corona area of Southern California, (Chola ville) I related right away with your character. I moved out of that area as a twenty year old and never looked back. Boy, did that story bring back some memories! Thanks for the good read!
Lynn Campbell~ author of TheChair
http://www.authonomy.com/books/39504/the-chair/
Right from the start I knew you had major talent. Just the way you put things here and there are extraordinary. And you don't go rambling on in Spanish. You keep it simple so the normal person could understand what it means. You are a pro and I think you know it. If you don't, you do now. You have a great lead character, already I feel I know who she is (I am also half-White, half-Mexican), and you put great images in the reader's head while reading the story. I feel like I am right there with the girl. Overall, just loved it! ~ Tony Ortiz author of My Friends Are All Dead People http://www.amazon.com/HMD-Tony-J-Ortiz/dp/1453553770/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1324411443&sr=1-6
Brash, fresh, candid, and excellent, Ms. Diaz. Which is why I featured 'They Call Me Blanca' on my website and blog. ~Eponymous Rox author of Bot http://www.authonomy.com/books/35441/bot/
There is a definite market for your novel. I love that you draw upon Mexican culture and infuse the novel with a fresh, creative quality. It's a breath of fresh air instead of reading about the all-American teenager in almost every book you pick up. Lina - as the protagonist - is easy to identify with. Her voice is distinct and you get a feel for who she is early on in the opening chapter without having to sift halfway through the novel wondering, who is Lina?
A winner!~ Christopher Penn-Wright author of Opening Night
http://www.authonomy.com/books/39120/opening-night/
This is good work! Blanca is one interesting chola, with powerful repressed feelings, and signs of indifference when she likes someone -- introverted like a teenager, yet ultra sensitive as any spanish teenager.... you have a powerful voice. The story is current and authentic, and it will serve an audience well to find out what goes on in so many families, schools, social circles. Young people today are hard to understand, yet Blanca´s story is so very revealing. Well done.
Stars and cheers for you.~ Elina Castro-Almeyra author of Clash
http://www.authonomy.com/books/33945/clash/
This is a brave book that licks along at a great pace. It feels completely genuine, as if you are talking to me, which is good for a book. Easy to pick off a shelf and read straightaway. A wonderful achievement.~Fran Macilvey, Trapped
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36740/trapped/
This is amazing, I started reading the first chapter and before I knew it I was one chapter five. My dad is from panama so seeing all the Spanish in your story was really cool...granted I can't speak any of it but I think it is awesome when an author can blend it in so seamless. Your character has depth to her and I absolutely love that about her. I really think that this can go far and you're taking care of two fan bases at once. ~Dakota Valasquez author of Din
http://www.authonomy.com/books/38314/din-the-elementalist-s-chronicles/
Was drawn in completely. The hispanic phrases and words scattered throughout the text helped me to better understand the character in her own world. Blanca is presented as an honest and real character.
Blanca's conflict is one that is well understood by all people. We all have experienced the feeling of not fitting in and the struggle of being different than everyone else in one way or another.~Julie Van Meter author of Pursuing the Peaceful Path
http://www.authonomy.com/books/35856/pursuing-the-peaceful-path-devotions-of-faith/
"You know, when this is over, maybe I'll at least feel like I fit in somewhere." Captures the sadness nicely without beating the reader over the head with it. I see why this is so popular. Voyueristic in away, it allows people to step into a world that's likely right outside of their front door, but they can experience it from the safety of their couch.~ Bill Scott author of Haktaw Heart
http://www.authonomy.com/books/21080/haktaw-heart-/
I was really impressed by the realistic voice...Peppering the narrative with Spanish and slang really brought the character alive to me and made me feel like she was being "real." I was drawn in by her story and the way she opened up to me as the reader.
You can't help but read on when you start this story because its narrator draws you in with her candidness and authenticity. ~ Rena (Bunderful) author of Master of the Miracles
http://www.authonomy.com/books/34610/master-of-the-miracles/
It's a friendly, relaxed, aware, and matter-of-fact one, which I think is perfect for telling the difficult and, at times, disturbing story she is telling. It serves to 'normalize' what we are reading, so we can read it and not feel overwhelmed by the brutality of her life. There are times when it actually seems as though she cares about the reader, telling us not to worry or panic and what-not, which I thought was neat. This is a very engaging story with an important message.
I like the storyline a lot and it will be interesting to see where Blanca goes from here. Thanks for posting such a unique book. I am so proud to find a good book containing strong Christian themes... ~Dyane Forde author of The Eagles Gift
http://www.authonomy.com/books/35921/the-eagle-s-gift/
I love (this) story!! I have taught many Hispanic students, and they really want books about modern-day kids like them. Your story will take the reader from (real life that is hard and hurts) to a better place.~Audrey Bennett author of Forgiveness Fits
http://www.authonomy.com/books/36529/forgiveness-fits/
Your story sucked me right in and I couldn't stop. My heart goes out to Blanca. Many teens face peer pressure and indentity crisis... Blanca is so focused on pleasing her peers, she has completely lost who she is. But, despite the fact that she is almost a shell of the person ( God has meant her to be), Blanca has an amazing ( and unforgettable) voice!
She is strong and independent, yet vulnerable and helpless at the same time. I usually don't read anything labeled "Christian," but this book truly has a message teens, parents of teens, and anyone who has ever been a teen, can appreciate. You've captured a true picture not only of life on the street, but a true picture of life for any teen (rich or poor) who is struggling to fit in. Great job!~ Tricia Drammeh author of The Claiming Words
http://www.authonomy.com/books/33692/the-claiming-words/