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336
Novel • Fiction
Lawrenceville, Georgia • Contemporary
2019
Adult
9-13 years
680L
Each Tiny Spark by Pablo Cartaya centers on 12-year-old Emilia Rosa, a young girl with ADHD navigating school life in Georgia. As her Marine father returns from a warzone and her mother departs for a business trip, Emilia seeks understanding and connection within her family, confronts social complexities like immigration and redistricting, and embraces activism, learning to voice her beliefs despite difficulties. The story includes racism, bullying, and allusions to war trauma.
Heartwarming
Emotional
Inspiring
Contemplative
Bittersweet
1,013 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Each Tiny Spark by Pablo Cartaya is praised for its authentic and heartfelt portrayal of a young girl's struggles with ADHD and the complexities of family and community. The book's vivid characters and cultural richness are strong points. Some readers find the pacing uneven, but overall, it offers valuable insights into identity and resilience.
A reader who would enjoy Each Tiny Spark by Pablo Cartaya is typically a middle-grade student who appreciates heartfelt, realistic stories about family, friendship, and self-discovery. Comparable to those who enjoy Jacqueline Woodson's Brown Girl Dreaming or R.J. Palacio's Wonder, they gravitate toward narratives dealing with personal growth and social issues.
1,013 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Clarissa Anderson
Emilia's childhood friend with a military father, who displays critical tendencies and acts as a foil to Emilia's activist inclinations. She has a more traditional viewpoint and a complex relationship with change.
Gus (Gustavo Sanchez)
Emilia’s close friend and aspiring filmmaker, whose passion for movies brings depth to their shared activism. He plays a pivotal role in helping Emilia create content and address social issues.
Abuela (Aurelia Torres)
Emilia’s grandmother who emphasizes family heritage and European traits, desiring the best for Emilia’s future. She has a strong, protective nature shaped by her past experiences.
Toni (Antonio Torres)
Emilia’s father, a former Marine who struggles with the aftereffects of war and builds a renewed bond with Emilia through shared interests. His journey involves opening up about his experiences.
Sue (Susana Torres)
Emilia’s supportive and attentive mother, who works in tech and remains involved in Emilia’s life and education despite geographical distance. She supports Emilia’s activism and world-changing goals.
Don Carlos
Owner of Don Carlos’s Grocery Latino, who indirectly propels Emilia towards activism by informing her about immigrant contributions. His store acts as a community hub for information and inspiration.
Mike Richt
Emilia's social-studies teacher who assigns a project that inadvertently guides Emilia toward activism. His character hints at unconventional teaching methods that encourage confronting societal issues.
Liz Becker
A librarian who facilitates Emilia’s research on immigration, serving as a crucial source of information and guidance. Her role underscores the importance of community resources in Emilia's journey.
336
Novel • Fiction
Lawrenceville, Georgia • Contemporary
2019
Adult
9-13 years
680L
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