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49 pages 1 hour read

Each Tiny Spark

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Pablo Cartaya

Each Tiny Spark

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Lawrenceville, Georgia • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

9-13 years

Lexile Level

680L

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.3

1,013 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Each Tiny Spark?

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.

4.3

1,013 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Emilia Rosa Torres

The main character and narrator who navigates life with ADHD, explores her family dynamics, and fuels activism within her community. Known by many names, she expresses her multi-layered identity and the challenges she faces.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Lawrenceville, Georgia • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

9-13 years

Lexile Level

680L

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