A review by bookishmillennial
Mexikid by Pedro Martín

challenging funny informative lighthearted reflective fast-paced
disclaimer: I don’t really give starred reviews. I hope my reviews provide enough information to let you know if a book is for you or not. Find me here: https://linktr.ee/bookishmillennial

I want to buy the print copy of the graphic novel now after listening to an ALC from PRH Audio (thank you PRH Audio - I'm providing this honest review on my own accord!) I am so curious as to how it is illustrated, or to read it alongside listening to the audiobook! I loved this story <3 

The audiobook was narrated by an entire cast, (also, there is background music!!) all of whom did an excellent job:
  • Oscar Emmanuel Fabela, Omar Levya, Cynthia Farrell, Kevin Orduño, Elena Ray, Avi Roque, Christophe Landa, Daisy Guevara, Alejandro Vargas-Lugo, Fernando Monroy

Basically, Pedro is one of nine kids and they're already fighting for space in their home when their parents inform them that they will be going to Mexico to pick up their ailing abuelito. Now, he will come live with their family! Though Pedro is initially frustrated because this is just one more person to take up space in their home, we are taken on an RV road trip from LA to Mexico. On the way, Pedro learns more and more about his abuelito, who was known as the “hero of Jalisco,” as he lived through and was part of the Mexican Revolution!

I really enjoyed the familial dynamics that were so vividly illustrated by the cast's narration and PM's writing. I am one of three kids, so hearing about being one out of nine kids was such a fun perspective to explore. This was everything I love about middle grade: goofy hijinks, everything feeling like *high stakes*, finding one's place (especially in this big family that is only getting bigger!), and so much pure giddiness and excitement over novelty.

For example, in chapter 7: The Other Side, Pedro is over the moon when he sees faux action figures at a market, and buys so many because of how affordable they were. I also cracked up when they drank raw milk at the market, and they literally have to run to the bathroom hahaha. The goofiness and the humor is that of a middle-grade aged kid, and though it's gross, I am here for it hahaha. The deer scene was sad, because I felt sad for Pedro having to contend with that as a kid😭

Since this is a memoir, we get a bit more context on Pedro’s family in the author’s note at the end, like his grandpa lived to be 107 and had 53 grandkids! He also explains what a “Mexikid” is <3 

I highly recommend this, whether you read it as an audiobook (top notch experience), or you read the ebook or print copy. You will not be disappointed! 
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