I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L Sanchez is a perfect coming of age story! Julia Reyes has lost her sister. And herself. Feeling that something is off with Olga’s death, Julia digs into her sister’s past and in doing so learns terrible truths and heart-wrenching secrets from several family members’ pasts.

This wonderfully written tale gave me a deep glimpse at a culture I am not overly familiar with. It’s the type of story that sparks empathy. It makes the ‘other’ normal and nothing fear. Rather, embrace diversity.

Julia did get on my nerves at first with her attitude. Her growth, from beginning to end, was fascinating, as she struggled against her family and culture’s notions of what makes a ‘perfect Mexican daughter.’ There were many things I could resonate with, especially feeling ‘not good enough’ for my family. They wanted to push me into a highly scientific, math-oriented career. I liked writing, anthropology, and forensics.

I loved that Julia chased the trauma back through her family, and was able to forgive her parents and begin to understand their actions and reactions. To reach that level of equanimity is refreshing to the soul.

Highly recommended, especially if interested in own voices, or cultural diversity.

****Read on my own