MELUS
"The
author sensitively explores the frequently painful process of young
teens becoming aware of their sexual preference and of various people's
reactions to this knowledge. For young teens, like Tommy, contemplating
coming out to their families and friends, this book demonstrates that
there are people in a community who may be of assistance and who can
provide comfort and support. Tommy Stands Alone further suggests that
people's fear of homosexuality, especially in a traditionally Hispanic
community, can be surmounted. For other young readers, this book communicates
an important message that tolerance and human dignity are essential
ingredients for living in this world." (Alexia Kosmider, University
of Rhode Island)
TEACHER
TOLERANCE
"The
Roosevelt High School Series, for grades 7 and up, features characters
that young people can relate to. The series deals with difficult
contemporary subjects and captures the pressures and emotions that
teenagers frequently experience. The use of Spanish words adds authenticity,
while the glossaries help non-Spanish-speaking readers put the words
in appropriate cultural contexts."
THE
YOUNG ADULT PERPLEX
"This
revelation of a neglectful system, with Velásquez's genuine
depiction of Juanita's and Ms. Martínez's difficulties straddling
both worlds, compellingly illustrates the challenge of combining
cultures. Teenagers of all backgrounds will be sensitized by this
accessible story, and Mexican American youth will be pleased to
see someone just like them finally appearing in a book."
MULTICULTURAL
REVIEW
"Fans
of Velásquez's earlier novel, Juanita Fights the School Board
(1994), and even those who found that book slow-moving, will enjoy
Maya's Divided World. Velásquez offers a fast-paced story
about Juanita's well-to-do best friend, Maya, whose parents are
getting a divorce... While Maya's Divided World has much to say
about a teen's experience of divorce, it also examines and reaffirms
the various characters' Mexican-American heritage, though in a way
that is critical of the traditional balance of power between women
and men." (Lyn Miller-Lachmann)
EL
ALMACEN LIBROS DE NANA, NANA'S BOOK WAREHOUSE
"Tommy Stands Alone is a sensitive and balanced treatment of
a difficult subject and it is very worthwhile reading for young
people. It in no way preaches one lifestyle over another; it promotes
understanding and tolerance."
|
