73 pages • 2 hours read
The First Rule of Punk
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary
2017
Middle grade
9-12 years
Super Short Summary
In Celia C. Pérez's The First Rule of Punk, 12-year-old Malú moves from Florida to Chicago with her mother for a new teaching job, struggling to balance her punk identity with her Mexican heritage. At her new school, she forms a band called the Co-Co’s, encountering challenges that include a dress-code violation and exclusion from a school event, leading to the creation of an alternative anti-talent show. Sensitive language is used in the novel.
Hopeful
Inspirational
Humorous
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
8,595 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Perez is an engaging and culturally rich novel that captures the essence of a young punk rocker navigating middle school challenges. Reviews commend its authentic voice, relatable protagonist, and incorporation of Mexican-American heritage. Some critique revolves around predictable plot elements, but overall, it's a heartwarming and vibrant read.
Who Should Read The First Rule of Punk ?
The ideal reader of Celia C. Perez's The First Rule of Punk is a middle-grade student interested in themes of identity, self-expression, and cultural heritage. Fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder and Kelly Yang's Front Desk will appreciate this engaging, emotionally resonant story woven with punk rock attitude and DIY spirit.
8,595 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Malú’s Mom
Malú’s Mom
A university professor teaching Chicano Literature in Chicago, who balances being a responsible parent while supporting Malú's journey toward self-identity.
Malú’s Dad
Malú’s Dad
The owner of Spins & Needles Records in Florida, where he serves as a comforting figure for Malú amid their geographical separation.
Joe Hidalgo
Joe Hidalgo
A classmate of Malú's at Posada Middle School, a musically talented individual who plays guitar in the school band and shares Malú's interest in punk rock.
Selena Ramirez
Selena Ramirez
Malú's classmate and the novel's antagonist, who embraces her Mexican heritage and belongs to a mainstream-oriented clique at school.
Oralia Bernal
Oralia Bernal
Joe's grandmother and a neighbor to Malú, who offers guidance and introduces Malú to cultural influences that enrich her identity.
Mrs. Ana Hidalgo
Mrs. Ana Hidalgo
Joe's mother, who owns Calaca Coffee and becomes a significant role model for Malú by exemplifying a blend of punk rock and Mexican heritage.
Benny
Benny
A musically talented classmate of Malú's, who performs in the school band, willing to switch instruments to support the band's needs.
Ellie
Ellie
A Posada Middle School student and overachiever who joins Malú's band as a drummer, despite having no prior experience with instruments.
336
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary
2017
Middle grade
9-12 years
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