A review by lilanye
The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes

emotional hopeful 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? It's complicated

4.25

This book introduces us to Yamilet, a lesbian Mexican-American teenager who is about to start in a new (catholic) high school full of rich white kids. Yamilet was outed by her ex-bestfriend at her old school and is eager to start fresh. 

 

I thought the main character’s voice is pleasant and believable, and true to her age. The characters in this book felt real. I also really enjoyed the realistic depiction of bilingualism. 

 

I felt heartbroken for Yamilet and the responsibilities instilled on her both by her mother and herself. She is only a child, yet has to take care of paying her high school tuition, look after her brother who is dealing with his own issues… 

 

All the while Yamilet is worrying about coming out to her family and trying to figure out how to afford living on her own if she gets kicked out. Will she become homeless? Can she afford an apartment? Will she have to quit school? The challenges of coming out in different cultures and families was approached effortlessly. 

 

The book is a beautiful coming of age story that deals with multiple themes such as being queer in different cultures, being brought up as a woman, religion and class. I loved this book and enjoyed it thoroughly.