111 pages • 3 hours read
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249
Novel • Fiction
San Diego, California • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
680L
In Mexican WhiteBoy by Matt de la Peña, sixteen-year-old Danny Lopez, who is half Mexican and half white, spends the summer with his father's family in National City, grappling with cultural and personal identity issues while enhancing his baseball skills. His journey is marked by a struggle to fit in and a desire to connect with his absent father.
Contemplative
Emotional
Challenging
Bittersweet
Hopeful
6,255 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mexican WhiteBoy by Matt de la Peña has been well-received for its compelling exploration of identity and cultural conflict. Readers appreciate the authentic portrayal of a mixed-race teenager finding his place in two worlds. However, some feel the narrative can be slow-paced at times. Overall, the book is praised for its relatable characters and emotional depth.
Readers who would enjoy Mexican WhiteBoy by Matt de la Peña are typically young adults drawn to coming-of-age stories about identity, family, and culture. Comparable to fans of Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, they often seek narratives exploring race, self-discovery, and belonging.
6,255 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Uno
Initially Danny's rival, Uno is a biracial boy from National City who develops a friendship with Danny, sharing common struggles and aspirations.
Senior
Uno's biological father who has reformed his life and encourages Uno to make positive choices, offering guidance and support.
Sofia Lopez
Danny's older cousin who provides him with care and guidance during his summer stay, helping him navigate family dynamics and his cultural identity.
Wendy Lopez
Danny's mother who is focused on providing opportunities for her son despite facing personal challenges and the aftermath of her ex-husband's actions.
Liberty
A girl Danny meets who shares a mixed heritage and forms a connection with him, despite their language barrier.
Javier Lopez
Danny’s absent father who is incarcerated and has arranged for someone to watch over Danny from a distance.
Ray Lopez
Danny's uncle who takes a protective but harsh approach, ultimately influencing Danny’s perspective on family.
The Mexican Scout
A man whom Danny initially mistakes for a baseball scout, later revealed to be watching over him per his father’s request.
Kyle Sorenson
The star of Leucadia Prep’s baseball team, he represents the life Danny envies but ultimately shows respect for Danny's talent.
Uncle Tommy
Danny's level-headed uncle who provides a stable environment during Danny’s stay in National City.
249
Novel • Fiction
San Diego, California • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
680L
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