Gabi, A Girl in Pieces

Quintero, I. (2014). Gabi, A Girl in Pieces. El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press.

Summary:

Gabi is a senior in high school with a lot to say. She has an over protective mother, and is expected to follow all the rules of their Mexican culture. Her mother is often critical of her weight and eating habits. She doesn’t believe that Gabi should go away to college. Her father is a drug addict who is constantly letting the family down. Despite his shortcomings, Gabi is devastated when her father overdoses. Gabi uses her journal to record all her thoughts about boys, sex, friends, family, and her feelings. She also learns to express herself though poetry. Through her writing and self-exploration, Gabi learns to love and accept herself  more.

Commentary:

I listened to this story from audible, and I loved it! The narrator did an amazing job at bringing Gabi to life. I loved when her mother would speak to her in Spanish. Topics of everyday life are discussed in Gabi’s journal.  Gabi writes about homosexuality, teenage pregnancy, rape, Mexican culture, drugs, overdosing, death, sexual experiences, and relationships. These are all topics that are relatable to many young adults.

Classroom Connections:

Poetry is a huge part of the book for Gabi. Students could write poetry about their own lives and experiences.

Book Trailer: