
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the complexities of a changing family dynamic or feeling the jitters of a summer away from home. As Miguel and Jaime deal with their parents' divorce and the arrival of their father's new family, they find an unexpected anchor in their vibrant, Spanish-speaking Tía Lola. It is a heartwarming exploration of how a multi-generational support system can turn a period of anxiety into a season of creative discovery. Through the lens of Dominican-American culture, the story emphasizes that family isn't just about who you live with, but who shows up for you. This is an ideal choice for middle-grade readers who need to see that even when life feels out of control, there is always room for joy, laughter, and a little bit of 'magic.'
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book addresses divorce and blended families directly but with a hopeful, secular lens. The friction between the original family and the 'new' family members is portrayed realistically, showing that integration takes time and patience rather than instant magic.
An 8 to 11 year old who might be feeling 'displaced' by a new step-sibling or a move, or a child who feels caught between two cultures and needs a story that celebrates bilingualism and heritage.
No specific scenes require heavy vetting, but parents should be ready to discuss the kids' initial feelings of jealousy toward their father's new children. A parent might notice their child acting out or becoming withdrawn when a 'new' family member is introduced, or when holiday/summer schedules change due to custody arrangements.
Younger readers will enjoy the humor of Tía Lola's antics and the 'camp' activities. Older readers will resonate more deeply with Miguel's internal struggle to balance his loyalty to his mother with his burgeoning relationship with his step-siblings.
Unlike many 'divorce books' that focus on the pain, Alvarez uses the character of Tía Lola to center the narrative on the richness of extended family and the way cultural heritage can provide a sense of stability.
Miguel and his sister Jaime are facing a summer of upheaval. Their parents are divorced, and their father is bringing his new wife and her children to visit. To manage the stress, their eccentric and loving Tía Lola decides to start her own 'summer camp' at their Vermont home. The story follows the siblings as they navigate blended family tensions, language barriers, and the process of making new friends while Tía Lola infuses every day with Dominican flair and wisdom.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.