Julia has a lot to offer teens when it comes to choices, consequences, and next steps.

After her older sister, Olga, dies in a bus accident, Julia Reyes (15) launches her own investigation into Olga’s personal life. Julia’s parents considered Olga a “perfect child” who often went to church and faithfully attended community college classes, but kept Julia at home for lengths of time she considered too restrictive. When she searches Olga's room, Julia finds a hotel key, several love notes, and other items.

When Julia isn't home or reconstructing her sister's life, she is usually partying with her best friend Lorena. While partying, Julia meets a rich boy  named Connor. The two spend more and more time together until Julia tells him about her problems. She takes his lack of support as a breakup, self-harms, and ends up in the hospital. Her parents send her to Mexico, and while recovering there, she finds Olga's Internet password and continues to learn more about her sister. It opens her eyes to not only her life and her mother's experiences, but her own choices as well.

BTSYA / Teen Reader (17):
I liked that this book touched upon many societal issues of immigration, homosexuality, and sexual assault. This book is great for teenagers going through times where they feel confined or are questioning those around them. It will help them realize that everyone has a story that defines them and affects their actions.

Readers who like to immerse themselves in topical, personal stories will enjoy I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter.

There is violence and references to sex, and alcohol and drug use. Julia (main character) suffers from depression and anxiety and attempts to deal with it by self harm. She learns that her mother was raped,