Summary
Sue wants to draw and go camping with friends all summer, but her family has planned a trip to visit relatives in Honduras. When they arrive, Sue learns that her mother has been planning her quinceañera, an event she does not want. Sue’s abuela passes away, and she realizes how vital her extended family is to her and decides to respect her grandmother by having the quinceañera. She manages an event that honors her grandmother, keeps the family traditions, and includes her unique flair.
Theme(s):
Family, Identity, Traditions
Personal Response
This story teaches young readers to balance between accepting themselves for who they are and cherishing their multigenerational family traditions. Sue is not looking forward to going to Honduras in the summer. She would rather be with her friends. Sue hates being under the spotlight and is self-conscious about her Spanish. After spending time with her extended family, Sue learns to embrace her culture on her terms. Miss Quinces captures the angst of young people caught between two cultures.
Teaching Ideas
Some teaching ideas you can use when reading this book is to have the students sequence the events of the story, complete a story map of the story or write about a connection that students. This book can be integrated into comprehension, writing, grammar, and social-emotional learning lessons. Students can identify the character traits of the main character.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 03, Grade 04, Grade 05, Grade 06, Grade 07
