Review: With the Fire on High

With the Fire on High With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Last summer, I was engrossed in Poet X and Elizabeth Acevedo has not disappointed with her new YA novel, With the Fire On High. I was thoroughly pleased with this story of Emoni. She not only lost her mother at birth, her father is in and out of her life, but ‘Buela is there for Emoni and her daughter, Emma.

Emoni is a senior in high school and as others are planning for college or trade school, she is focused on a job to support her little girl. Her Buela is going to doctor’s appointments, Emma’s father is adding social and family pressure, and her father is in Puerto Rico helping those in need, as he runs his barber shop. Emoni loves to cook and has a natural talent with her dish creations.

Will Emoni find her way? Will ‘Buela be okay? What is best for Emma and Emoni?

Highly recommend this YA novel for our secondary ELA students! A story of determination when faced with challenges.

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