Scan barcode
danielghurst's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Fifteen Hundred Miles From the Sun by Jonny Garza Villa tells the story of Jules, a Mexican American teenager in Texas, who accidentally outs himself as gay on Twitter. In the fallout, Jules's friends and older sister help him through a difficult family situation and achieve his dream of going to college in LA, and an internet crush turns into something more.
The best aspects of the book are in the strong narrative voice and authentic relationships between the teen characters. The level of detail in describing life in the Houston area and within Jules's Latinx family and friend group show obvious care and authenticity. The Los Angeles scenes ring true, as well. The story contains many heartfelt moments that hit home and nails all the feelings of reaching the end of high school. Though it's a minor spoiler to say so, I appreciate this unflinching look at a negative coming out experience and what an abusive parental relationship looks like.
It's a strong debut, and I look forward to what Jonny Garza Villa does next!
The best aspects of the book are in the strong narrative voice and authentic relationships between the teen characters. The level of detail in describing life in the Houston area and within Jules's Latinx family and friend group show obvious care and authenticity. The Los Angeles scenes ring true, as well. The story contains many heartfelt moments that hit home and nails all the feelings of reaching the end of high school. Though it's a minor spoiler to say so, I appreciate this unflinching look at a negative coming out experience and what an abusive parental relationship looks like.
It's a strong debut, and I look forward to what Jonny Garza Villa does next!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Abandonment, Alcohol, and Homophobia
Moderate: Cursing, Outing, Religious bigotry, Child abuse, and Physical abuse
Minor: Biphobia, Xenophobia, and Sexual content
More...