73 pages 2 hours read

Celia C. Perez

The First Rule of Punk

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Celia C. Pérez's The First Rule of Punk, 12-year-old Malú moves from Florida to Chicago with her mother for a new teaching job, struggling to balance her punk identity with her Mexican heritage. At her new school, she forms a band called the Co-Co’s, encountering challenges that include a dress-code violation and exclusion from a school event, leading to the creation of an alternative anti-talent show. Sensitive language is used in the novel.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Perez is an engaging and culturally rich novel that captures the essence of a young punk rocker navigating middle school challenges. Reviews commend its authentic voice, relatable protagonist, and incorporation of Mexican-American heritage. Some critique revolves around predictable plot elements, but overall, it's a heartwarming and vibrant read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The First Rule of Punk ?

The ideal reader of Celia C. Perez's The First Rule of Punk is a middle-grade student interested in themes of identity, self-expression, and cultural heritage. Fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder and Kelly Yang's Front Desk will appreciate this engaging, emotionally resonant story woven with punk rock attitude and DIY spirit.

RecommendedReading Age

9-12years

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Children's Literature

Modern Classic Fiction

Themes

Identity: Gender

Relationships: Family

Topics

Music

Arts / Culture