Bless Me, Ultima

Reach for this book when your teenager is beginning to question the rigid boundaries of their upbringing or struggling to reconcile different parts of their identity. Set in 1940s New Mexico, the story follows young Antonio as he is mentored by Ultima, a wise curandera who possesses a deep, mystical connection to the earth. Through her guidance, Antonio navigates the conflicting expectations of his parents, the complexities of his Catholic faith, and the ancient folklore of his ancestors. It is a profound exploration of moral ambiguity and spiritual discovery that treats the transition from childhood to adulthood with great dignity. Parents will appreciate how the novel validates the messy, often frightening process of forming one's own worldview. While it contains some mature themes including violence and death, its poetic language and rich cultural heritage make it a foundational piece of American literature for the middle and high school years.