Book details
The Improbable Rise of Paco Jones
Description
The diverse, coming of age novel you've been waiting for! 8th grader Paco Jones, a biracial Mexican kid with few friends, is an unlikely hero. He's recently transferred from his old junior high to a private school, and because he's the poor new kid, he soon finds himself the least popular. It doesn't help that he sports "a big nose, an unflattering birthmark, pigeon-toed feet and hairy arms," all of them fodder for teasing. He's jeered at during lunch, called "Paco Taco", and ridiculed for being different. So what hope is there for him when he falls for Naomi Fox, a gorgeous, popular girl already involved with the most popular guy in school? Through dumb luck and a few clever moves, Paco soon finds himself on center stage amidst a twisted middle school mess. 2017 San Diego Book Award Winner, Best YA fiction "A fun, amusing tale about the beautiful torment of young hearts and hormones at play."-Kirkus Reviews "Quick yet heavy-laden read about race, class, and friendship. Recommended for fans of Rainbow Rowell and Matt de la Peña."-School Library Journal
Age
13-17
Text complexity
beginner
Length
188 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'The Improbable Rise of Paco Jones' offers readers a unique perspective on biracial identity and the complexities of navigating different cultural backgrounds, providing a deeper understanding of multicultural experiences.
- Relatable Coming-of-Age Story: Dominic Carrillo's novel is a coming-of-age story that many readers can relate to, as it touches on universal themes of adolescence, such as fitting in, first love, and self-discovery.
- Engaging Narrative: With its witty and engaging writing style, the book captures the reader's attention from the first page. The story of Paco Jones is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a compelling read.
- Social Commentary: The novel addresses important social issues such as racism, bullying, and social hierarchy within the school system. It encourages readers to think critically about these issues and promotes empathy and understanding.