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Sal and Gabi Break the Universe

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Carlos Hernandez

Sal and Gabi Break the Universe

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Miami, Florida • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

Sal and Gabi Break the Universe, by Carlos Hernandez, follows 13-year-old Sal Vidón, who, after the loss of his mother, discovers he can manipulate the multiverse. As he navigates a new school, he befriends Gabi Reál, and together, they explore the implications of Sal's extraordinary abilities, which lead them into a series of adventures that challenge their understanding of friendship, grief, and reality itself. The book depicts bullying, grief, loss, illness, medical care, and references to child abuse.

Humorous

Playful

Fantastical

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.4

7,960 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez has received widespread acclaim for its engaging storytelling, diverse characters, and imaginative plot. Readers appreciate its humor and heartwarming moments, though some note a convoluted storyline. Overall, it's praised as a refreshing and inclusive middle-grade novel that adeptly weaves science fiction with everyday issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sal and Gabi Break the Universe?

A reader who enjoys whimsical, heartfelt adventures with a touch of science fiction would love Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez. Fans of Percy Jackson and A Wrinkle in Time will appreciate its blend of humor, cultural richness, and multidimensional escapades.

4.4

7,960 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Salvador Alberto Dorado Vidón (Sal)

A talented stage magician and seventh grader at Culeco Academy with a unique ability to access alternate universes, who navigates life in a new school while dealing with the grief of losing his mother and the challenges of having type 1 diabetes.

A 13-year-old student council president and school paper editor at Culeco Academy, known for her strong personality and leadership skills, who becomes an important friend to Sal.

A 13-year-old aspiring dancer at Culeco Academy who initially bullies Sal but gradually forms a friendship with him, and faces challenges at home.

Sal's father, a calamity physicist, who provides support and guidance to Sal as he deals with his extraordinary abilities and personal challenges.

Sal's American stepmother and a supportive figure, who embraces Cuban traditions and plays an important role in Sal's life, helping him cope with his powers and family dynamics.

Gabi's mother, an advice columnist who is a nurturing presence for her family, providing strength and support despite the stresses of dealing with her son's health issues.

Gabi's one-month-old brother, who acts as a motivating factor for Sal and Gabi's exploration of the multiverse due to his critical health condition.

The formidable yet compassionate principal of Culeco Academy, who demonstrates fairness and genuine concern for the students, especially when dealing with Yasmany and Sal.

A renowned cosplay designer and textile arts teacher at Culeco Academy, who encourages students to unleash their creativity.

A health teacher at Culeco Academy who focuses on the growth of his students and is willing to acknowledge and correct his mistakes.

The chief learning coordinator at Culeco Academy, who transforms detention into a supportive study hall to assist students.

The theater teacher at Culeco Academy who inspires students by affirming their talents and motivating them to achieve their best work.

The chief custodian at Culeco Academy who supports students with guidance alongside maintaining the school's cleanliness.

A student at Culeco Academy who exhibits prejudice towards Sal after the "chicken incident," demonstrating themes of misunderstanding and rejection.

A supportive friend to Sal at Culeco Academy who may have romantic feelings for him, known for playful pranks and providing assistance when needed.

A compassionate and hardworking nurse who sees through Sal's magical tricks and bridges the connection between the Reál and Vidón families.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Miami, Florida • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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