Merci Suarez Changes Gears by Meg Medina

Merci is a scholarship student at a private school in Florida which makes the ordinary challenges facing sixth graders more potent.

Jealous girlfriends, changing boy-girl relationships, seemingly unjust social situations, and increasing responsibilities at home are just a few of the problems Merci encounters as she begins a new school year. Added to these is the strange behavior of her dear grandfather Lolo.

This delightful story won the Newberry Medal and is perfect for all middle school readers. It gives parents and teachers opportunity to discuss the issues dear to the hearts of young people. Meg Medina also weaves in the difficulties families deal with as grandparents age and get sick (Lolo is diagnosed with Altzheimer’s Disease).

I highly recommend this book!

Medina, Meg. Merci Suárez Changes Gears. Candlewick Press, 2020.