A coming of age story during the Vietnam War era, Jesse and Abel, two young Mexican American brothers are determined to succeed despite their family history. In an effort to escape an alcoholic and abusive stepfather, the two brothers rent a modest apartment in Fresno. The brothers attempt to survive by attending college and working odd jobs picking fruit and cotton.  Soto does a remarkable job developing these characters showcasing their strengths and vulnerabilities. Their devotion and dependence upon each other throughout this novel is heartwarming!

"We moved out of the house believing if we got an apartment we could finally be happy."

From the Spanish terms and phrases incorporated in the text to political references, Soto truly celebrates the characters young Mexican-American culture. Throughout the story, Jesse, the younger brother and narrator stays true to his culture through attending weekly Sunday dinners with his mother.

"We had chicken mole, my favorite dish with steaming piles of arroz and frijoles."

He also participates in protests related to Mexican- American concerns.

"Mexican jobs weren't good jobs, though Cesar Chavez was trying to change this...We would march too."

Written in simple text interwoven with heartfelt compassion and tradition, young adult readers will adore this captivating tale!