Half-Chicano and Half-Anglo, Manuel Ryan Survives Seventh Grade...
After his parents separate, 12-year-old Manuel Ryan moves in with his Latina grandmother. Her slowly intgrating barrio offers the boy rich experiences, and an aging neighbor, Mr. Samuelian -- "the madman" -- becomes the boy's friend and mentor. Manuel is one of the few blonds at Our Lady of Guadalupe School as he enters junior high, and he faces challenges that range from his emerging sexuality, to the increasing threat of gangs. Along the way, he learns not only to value his own mixed heritage, but also that he is one of many blended Californians.
Includes a Spanish-English glossary of words in the book.
