Warrior Girl

Gr 5 Up–She’s Celina Teresa Guerrero Amaya, but the nurse decided “four is too many names” and wrote a shortened portmanteau on her birth certificate: Guerrera, presciently meaning “WOMAN warrior.” At 12, Celi’s life is complicated: Dad’s been deported to Mexico (again); she’s moved (again), this time to Gramma’s in San Antonio; and she’s struggling to adjust to another new school (again). Gramma becomes her greatest champion, filling Celi with inspiring memories, empowering her with powerful histories. Further buoyed by new friends, Celi claims the promise of her name: “No matter what, they will not silence me.” Prolific Mexican American poet/writer Tafolla’s verse novel—and first audiobook (the Spanish edition follows in January 2024)—is mellifluously ciphered by fellow Mexican American Escamilla. Her Spanish fluency is distinctly appreciated, as Celi’s voice as poet and warrior evolves and expands.