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Synopsis
While trying to win the attention of a high school basketball star who already has a girlfriend, Maggie, a Cuban American, learns painful lessons about romantic young love.
VOYA
When Maggie Castillo discovers that the elderly patient she has been caring for after school is the grandmother of her longtime crush, school basketball star Zach, it seems like the work of fate--or the lucky jasmine blossom she plucks each morning. As Maggie feels her chances with Zach increase, her attentions are drawn to a different boy, the math-loving newcomer Justin. When Maggie's illusions about the popular jock begin to dissolve and she starts to recognize more attractive qualities in the brainier beau, Maggie fears her futile pursuit of Zach has ruined her chances for love with Justin. Throughout the novel, Maggie's insecurities and concerns are well voiced and will be distinctly recognizable to teens. Maggie's superstitious use of the jasmine and her romantic associations with Zach's team number ("The number nine... had taken on special significance in my world") are humorous but touching. Unfortunately, the awkward and inconsistent use of what Bernardo deems to be "teen-speak" weakens the novel's empathetic strength; however, the incorporation of Spanish language and Cuban culture into the text enlarges its perspective. Though Bernardo's two-boy-dilemma is vaguely reminiscent of a plot from the Love Stories series, this genuine narration will be well received by fans of Ellen Conford-esque romance. VOYA Codes: 3Q 4P M J (Readable without serious defects; Broad general YA appeal; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9).