This kid is in first grade????
I began truly loving this book. I thought the language was beautiful, the magic realism combined with mexican-american cultural practices was magnificent. I can't believe people thought it was boring! But, I do have to say I was repeatedly bothered by the fact that this was supposed to be a 6-7 year old boy having these enlightening thoughts and concerns. Come on, when you're six you're worried about the monster under the bed not the bigger ramifications of 2 sides of the family, older brothers destroying the dreams of their parents and what are the secrets of the universe! At least bring the kid up to 11 or 12 to make it semi-realistic. That really ruined it for me! and his bud Cico (sp?) he was supposed to be, like 8, and he was like a wise old guru spouting truths and gems of wisdom (In third grade!!)