Pérez, Celia C. Tumble. 2022. 368p. Kokila, $18.99 (9780593325179) Recommended Grade levels 4-6.
Living with her mom and Alex in New Mexico, twelve-year-old Addie pursues a connection with her biological father after her stepfather proposes adopting her. With the help of her friends and the local librarian, Addie begins putting together the pieces of her puzzle. Through research and sleuthing she discovers she is a Bravo, a local family of luchadores, wrestlers, and even women! As Addie begins to build connections with her newfound family she has to sort the complexities of new relationships that inform who she is. A 2023 Pura Belpré Author Honor Book, a profound and exciting, middle-grade read centering on a young girl stepping into her voice.
Perspectives: What I appreciate most about this middle-grade read, is the agency Addie as a main character has over decision-making that impacts her life. When talking to her about the adoption proposal, adults are transparent and make sure that Addie knows her options. They give her time to think and process before making her decision. When Addie makes her decision she is supported and her decision is respected.
Practice: This is a great independent reading book. When a family structure changes through divorce or a new marriage, children are not given the voice and agency to make decisions around guardianship. For any family looking to build dialogue with their child, this book will not hit them over the head with content but may give them a window into what is possible. Buy it!
Reviewed by María Valiente
The Adoptee Bookshelf 