CHOIR GRRRL

The daughter of a former rock star in Los Angeles is torn between playing in a band with her sisters and her wish to sing in a choir.

At 13, Alondra Yniguez has more experience with the world of rock music than most teens. Her dad was once the frontman of the popular emo band Past Perfection, among the first all-Latino bands in the genre. He’s trained her and her younger sisters, Elisa and Gloria, in everything from piano and drums to violin and bass. Now Past Perfection is launching a reunion tour, and the girls’ band, Beyond the Valley, will be the opening act. It’s a dream come true for most kids—and it might even be enough to bring home their music publicist mother, who’s separated from their dad. But instead of sounding gritty and tough, Alondra’s voice is coming out “clear and pure.” What’s unsuitable for emo is perfect for the choir club that a classmate convinces her to join. But trying to keep the club a secret from her family, perform with Beyond the Valley, and pass the eighth grade might be too much for Alondra. Warm and funny with strong, realistic characters, Granillo’s sophomore novel explores issues including parental conflict and the representation of girls, women, and Latine people in rock. Mexican American Alondra navigates dating as someone who is asexual and “probably aromantic.”

An emotional, well-realized story about finding your voice.