Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the real deal—a Newbery Honor winner that kids actually want to read. Pedro Martín's graphic memoir nails the balance between laugh-out-loud funny and genuinely moving, all while teaching about Mexican American culture and family heritage in a way that never feels preachy.

The graphic novel format is a huge win for getting reluctant readers engaged, but don't mistake this for lightweight—it's got substance. The story of cramming into a Winnebago with 8 siblings to bring grandpa back from Mexico is both specific to the author's experience and universal enough that kids from all backgrounds will see their own family chaos reflected.

What makes it special is how it handles the generational gap and cultural identity without being heavy-handed. Pedro starts out not wanting his grandfather to move in (relatable), and through the road trip learns to connect with his heritage and 'find his grito'—a lovely metaphor for finding your voice as you grow up.

At a 4.7 on Amazon with multiple prestigious awards, this is a no-brainer addition to any middle grade reader's shelf. It's current (2023), culturally rich, funny, and exactly the kind of book kids will pass around to their friends.

Age Fit

Best for ages 8-14, right in the middle grade sweet spot. The graphic novel format makes it accessible for younger readers (or great for reading aloud to 7-8 year olds), while the coming-of-age themes and family complexity will resonate with kids up through middle school.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

92

A warmhearted graphic memoir about family, culture, and growing up. Models strong family bonds, multi-generational respect, and finding your voice. The humor is age-appropriate and the chaotic road trip with 8 siblings feels authentic rather than mean-spirited. Some sibling squabbles and typical family tension, but overall emotionally healthy and grounded in love.

Imaginative

85

The graphic novel format brings visual creativity to a personal memoir, with colorful illustrations that make the 1977 road trip come alive. While it's a true story rather than fantasy, it invites kids to think about their own family histories, cultural heritage, and the legendary stories passed down through generations. The concept of 'finding your grito' (your voice/shout) is a creative metaphor for self-discovery.

Safe

94

Common Sense Media notes 'some violence' but describes it as part of a 'charming family road trip.' The violence appears minimal and contextual (likely references to grandfather's Revolution stories). No concerning content warnings in any reviews. As a graphic memoir aimed at middle grade readers, it's designed to be accessible and appropriate. The book has won multiple prestigious awards including Newbery Honor and Pura Belpré, signaling thorough vetting by librarians and educators.

Enriching

93

Newbery Honor winner that offers cultural education about Mexican American identity, family immigration experiences, and historical context (Mexican Revolution). Teaches empathy across generations and provides representation for Latino kids while educating all readers. The coming-of-age narrative about finding your voice is developmentally meaningful for middle graders. Multiple reviews emphasize it's both funny and moving—entertainment balanced with substance. Strong 4.7 Amazon rating suggests broad appeal.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Newbery Honor winner that's actually funny—kids say it's 'action packed and full of laughs' while dealing with real family dynamics
Gorgeous graphic novel format makes it accessible for reluctant readers while still being substantive enough for strong readers
Authentic representation of Mexican American family life—big, loud, messy, loving, and real
The whole 'finding your grito' concept gives kids a framework for thinking about their own identity and voice
Perfect blend of humor and heart—reviews consistently mention both the laughs and the emotional depth

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What to Watch For

Some references to violence in the grandfather's Mexican Revolution stories, though handled age-appropriately
The chaotic family dynamics (9 kids in a Winnebago!) might feel overwhelming to some kids, though most will find it relatable
Set in 1977, so some cultural references may need context for modern kids

Conversation Starters

"What stories do your grandparents tell about when they were younger? Which ones sound totally wild or hard to believe?"
"Pedro has 8 siblings—what do you think would be the best and worst parts of having a family that big?"
"What do you think 'finding your grito' means? What would your grito sound like?"
"Have you ever gone on a long road trip with family? What was the most chaotic or funny moment?"
"Pedro learns about his Mexican heritage on this trip—what parts of your family's culture or history do you want to learn more about?"

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