WHO CARES ABOUT ESPIE SANCHEZ?

Mexican Espie Sanchez is picked up on a curfew violation when trying to run away from her mother's latest lover who has busy hands. She gets the choice between juvenile court or living with elderly, strict Mrs. Garcia--prayers every day, even a trip to her husband's grave. Gradually the defiant Espie finds more to run toward than away from--a roommate Denise, a boy Carlos, and participation in L.A.'s Law Enforcement Explorer Group where after a strict regimen of jogging and push-ups they're conditioned as a youthful auxiliary of the police. The o.d. death of her brother makes her determined to get the evidence on his connection--the firmest part of this demi-documentary novel of what can be done for and by girls like Espie Sanchez. The work of this Explorer program is an authentic incentive; the story speaks for itself and for Espie. Simpatico.