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Book details

Efrain's Secret

Efrain's Secret

Published in
2010
3.64
on Goodreads (116)

Description

Ambitious high school senior Efrain Rodriguez dreams of escaping the South Bronx for an Ivy League college like Harvard or Yale. But how is his family going to afford to pay for a prestigious university when Moms has to work insane hours to put food on the table as it is? And Efrain wouldnt dare ask that good-for-nothing father of his who has traded his family in for younger models. Left with few options, Efrain chooses to do something he never thought he would. He embarks on a double lifehonor student by day, drug peddler at nightconvinced that by temporarily capitulating to societys negative expectations of a boy like him, he can eventually defy them.Sofia Quintero makes a stunning debut writing for young adults with this gritty, complex, and real exploration of the life of an urban teen whose attempt to leave one world behind for a better one could cost him everything.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
13-14
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
240 pages

Why to read

  • Engaging Narrative: 'Efrain's Secret' offers a compelling and realistic story that captures the reader's attention with its relatable characters and the protagonist's moral dilemmas, making it a page-turner.
  • Important Themes: The book tackles significant themes such as the pressure to succeed, the allure of easy money, and the challenges faced by inner-city youth, providing valuable insights and discussion points for readers.
  • Cultural Representation: Sofia Quintero provides a vivid portrayal of urban life and the Latino experience in America, giving a voice to a community that is often underrepresented in literature.
  • Character Development: Readers can witness the growth and transformation of the main character, Efrain, as he navigates through difficult choices, allowing for a deep connection with his journey and personal development.