Quintero, I. (2014). Gabi: A girl in pieces, TX: Cinco Puntos
Summary
Gabi's mother has alway told her that when it comes to boys, "eyes open, legs closed." This coming from being beaten and discarded by Gabi's namesake when Gabi's mother confessed she was pregnant and unwed. Gabi's sexuality during her last year of high school is explored in this novel, as well as issues with her best friend's coming out, the drug addiction of her father, and a suicide that hits Gabi and readers right where it hurts. Quintero's debut novel hits so many heavy issues that readers will never have a dull moment, especially with Gabi's wit and insight into each situation.
A Teacher's Perspective
The writing style of this book is so easy to follow that readers will be hooked into the pages immediately. Gabi wants to explore who she is without her mother chastising her, despite the fact that Gabi just wants to be a modern Mexican-American girl living her best life. There are so many hit topics within this novel: LGBTQ+, drug addiction, suicide, body positivity, rape, slut-shaming. It tries to tie it all in while readers watch Gabi learn and grow from each situation. There definitely should be a trigger warning for such harsh topics, but this book should be showcased to older students so that they know they're not alone in their situations, so that they can find themselves on the page.
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School Library Journal interviewed Isabel Quintero. Here is the video:
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