While reading this novel, I kept coming back to the coming of age theme. this novel showcased friendship and self-discovery in such a unique but relatable way. The details of Lily and Shirley's friendship were so natural and even the way they grew apart was realistic. For young readers they will most likely grow from friends for varying circumstances. Lo brought even better perspective to this by bringing light to this for young LGBTQ+ students.

The time jumps and different perspectives were very well done. It was also extremely helpful that the chapters had dates and clarified who was the main plot point during given moments. there were even timelines that kept me engaged and understanding of what was actually going on in the real world and fictional world. These details are extremely important to students because if they don't know what's going on then they will lose interest.

I love the historical fiction part of this novel. It's such a unique perspective for a ya novel and teaches readers about the historical culture while reading. From a teacher perspective, the historical fiction aspect leverages many conversations within the classroom and opens the door for other historical pieces. Lo did a great job incorporating seemingly small details that define the success of the setting perspective. Great chance for analysis

Chapter 3 of this book discusses building stamina within the students. The common thing was finding books students enjoy. Another practice mentioned multiple times was conferencing. I really like this practice for teachers and it definitely holds value. I am curious to practice this as I go into my student teaching. These conversations help guide students towards comfortable reading experiences and relationship building that fosters growth.

Something I found really interesting was the section about college preparation. It was shocking to read Kittle's account for college readiness from her students and other professors as it pertains to reading. It really does highlight the importance of literature throughout the course of one's life. This should be info that encourages every school to examine their book selections and evaluate the educational content of curriculums.

I appreciated how in chapter one, Kittle framed some of her argument around students falling behind due to unrealistic standards for them. This doesn't get much acknowledgment in schools today. She also points out in chapter 2 that books in schools are by adults for adults meaning students don't take ownership of what they're reading. No interest in reading causes a huge gap in learning. it seems to be an endless cycle in schools now but solvable

I really appreciated Yasmin's background in journalism as it pertains to this book. I think that her expertise in this area gives her an advantage when writing about false narratives. she has experienced it herself and it shows with the way she conveys herself. Allowing students to read the words of an expert in the field is going to let them recognize how important it is and the credibility she has. I can already form assignments using this book

Okay step-by-step applicable instructions!! - this book gives students access to deciphering truth from fiction in such a cool and engaging way. My favorite part was the context of social media being used. Younger students have so much social media exposure and it can be difficult to navigate alone. the emphasis on media literacy by Yasmin really teaches readers how to deal with theories, fake news, and rumors in the digital space.

I prefer non-fiction over fiction (I know sue me) and I really enjoyed this book. It is definitely something I would keep accessible to students. I wasn't super sure what I was about to read when I got into it but I thought it was very readable and concepts were explained well for students. I think the real-world examples provided by Yasmin that all kids can relate to and understand were key in accomplishing this.

McBride did a good job at positioning mental health in a digestible way that is easily understandable for younger readers. Depression was not tip-toed around nor glorified. McBride also weaved in racial identity with mental health in a powerful way that deserves recognition. Combined with the fantastical setting, this book is a classic young adult literature novel that holds moral value and entertainment for younger audiences.

I'm going to be honest- I did not connect with this book. It was well-written but it is not a book I would particularly choose to read in my own time. It was interesting considering it was written in verse and a good example at that. I think that listening to the audiobook did shape my overall experience. At some points the audiobook worked well and others I was wishing I had a physical copy. Although the book was not my speed I see the appeal.

Overall I enjoyed this book. I'm not sure I would teach it because I think I would personally get bored reading it multiple times over but I would definitely recommend it to students or teach it through small group settings where kids could pick from various books and read them in a book club. The ending was satisfying and had a feel-good aspect to it that gives kids closure when building reading stamina.

The first part of this book threw me off for a little bit. The character povs swapped out but once I realized what was going on I was all for it. first half of the book did a good job staying interesting and explaining book banning on an age appropriate level. I enjoyed Donovan the most because he shows the coming of age process kids have with their parents regarding differing opinions. Would be a great resource to discuss beliefs in writing.

The humor in Mexikid was engaging. I did not expect it. I think it was great for me as a teacher/ adult as well as younger students. It eased tension and brought entertainment to more serious implications in the novel. The humor also made the book go by fast and it made the thickness of the novel a lot less intimidating. My favorite funny scene was when Pedro dialed into annoy his older siblings when they left Mexico. Very relatable/ good timing

I loved the commentary on immigration throughout Mexikid. I think this is extremely important to expose ignorant students too, and even more for students who have a personal stake in immigration. The scenes from the border were age appropriate as well as great insight into the anxieties that stem from the U.S. Mexican border through experience and media. If I wasn't allowed to teach this book, I would keep it on the shelf to recommend to students

I was initially worried about this story. I am not artistically inclined and worked myself up about the art aspect as an educator who will teach graphic novels. However, Martin put me at ease in the first chapter and his introduction to the characters alongside the illustrations. They made the first part of the book much easier to read. Martin's story was destined to be a graphic novel. I gained confidence with graphic novels because of this story

Flying Lessons and Other Stories was an easy read. I kept putting myself in the shoes of a middle schooler reading this book. I can imagine how it would be quick to read, easy to understand from a vocab standpoint, and chock full of meaning that's relatable. I would love to incorporate the aspect of identity and story telling into my classroom activities at some point. this book compared with a memoir unit. Overall I really enjoyed it. 10/10 rec

A major takeaway I had from the assortment of stories is the highlight of meaning in ordinary events. Each author examined a point in their life that was significant to coming-of-age and the understanding of life. I think this is a great way to get young writers examining the meaning of the things that have happened in their own life even if it seems boring to them. I would love to incorporate these stories as a mentor text for memoir writing.

The first story by Matt de la Peña: “How to Transform an Everyday Hoop Court Into a Place of Higher Learning and You at the Podium“ was one of my favorites from the entire book. I loved the way diverse identities were explored through the eyes of a rising freshman. I immediately began to think of students I've worked with who would enjoy this book and it got me thinking of mentor texts in my classroom with regard to meaning and entertainment.