¡AY, MIJA!

A teen’s life-changing trip to see relatives in Mexico is explored in this graphic novel inspired by the author’s own life.

The summer before junior year offers a chance for Christine to immerse themself in their Mexican family’s culture, but as a light-skinned, biracial kid from Texas with a White American father and Mexican immigrant mother who does not speak Spanish fluently, it is also intimidating. Christine gets to visit their maternal grandparents for the summer and explore both Mexico City and the family rancho in Querétaro. Christine grapples with multiple facets of their identity, from how to embrace the Mexican side of their mixed heritage to their weight, body image, and sexuality, but their summer in Mexico gives them the chance to explore all of these subjects. Though their lack of mastery of Spanish is isolating in the beginning, they slowly become more comfortable with the language and with themself. The illustrations effectively and attractively use a limited palette, mostly shades of blue and orange, and Christine’s internal monologue is depicted as a small orange avatar. This is a fun and fast read, and while the story is light, the coming-of-age self-exploration Christine undertakes adds nuance and depth, grounding the story in enduring themes. An epilogue includes charming photos from the Suggs’ middle and high school visits to relatives.

A sweet and memorable story of growth and self-discovery.