A review by tuma
The Making of Yolanda La Bruja by Lorraine Avila

challenging emotional inspiring reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Overall, a great book!
Representation: Dominican American, Bronxites, Deafness 

Explores a LOT of themes - education, mental health, incarceration/prison, school shooting, racism, grief/loss, spirituality/brujaria, politics, protest, Covid-19. (It was ALMOST tooo many things thrown into one novel, some things mentioned only in passing.) But the characters were dynamic and real. I loved Yolanda so much, despite all her flaws. Actually, made her even more lovable. Her best friend, boyfriend, dad, mom, grandma -- all of them were awesome. Recommend this for most people who enjoy contemporary YA and for teens and educators. Even though it drags a bit in some places, still worth it. 

Disclaimer: I read a physical uncorrected arc. Maybe final version has some edits.