Search
Site Preferences
Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet
Penelope Prado has always dreamed of opening her own pastelería next to her father’s restaurant, Nacho’s Tacos. But her mom and dad have different plans—leaving Pen to choose between disappointing her traditional Mexican American parents or following her own path. When she confesses a secret she’s been keeping, her world is sent into a tailspin. But then she meets a cute new hire at Nacho’s who sees through her hard exterior and asks the questions she’s been too afraid to ask herself.
Xander Amaro has been searching for home since he was a little boy. For him, a job at Nacho’s is an opportunity for just that—a chance at a normal life, to settle in at his abuelo’s, and to find the father who left him behind. But when both the restaurant and Xander’s immigrant status are threatened, he will do whatever it takes to protect his newfound family and himself.
Together, Pen and Xander must navigate first love and discovering where they belong in order to save the place they all call home.
This stunning and poignant novel from debut author Laekan Zea Kemp explores identity, found families and the power of food, all nestled within a courageous and intensely loyal Chicanx community. Goodreads
Formats and Prices
Price
$10.99Price
$14.99 CADFormat
Format:
- Trade Paperback $10.99 $14.99 CAD
- ebook $9.99 $12.99 CAD
- Hardcover $17.99 $22.99 CAD
- Audiobook Download (Unabridged)
Buy from Other Retailers:
You May Also Like
About the Author
Laekan Zea Kemp is the author of the picture book A Crown for Corina as well as middle grade and young adult novels, including the Pura Belpré Honor book Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet. She lives in Austin, Texas. Laekan invites you to visit her at laekanzeakemp.com or follow her on social media @LaekanZeaKemp.
Fan Behavior
From NOVL Nation
“This is a fantastic coming of age story that really dives into the importance of family and culture.”
– Toya, @thereadingchemist
“Somewhere Between Bitter and Sweet is the book equivalent of a mug of hot chocolate, or inside jokes with your best friend – just completely warm and comforting and delicious. Truly cannot recommend it enough.”
– Jamie, @jlew8
“Xander and Pen felt so genuine and real, as well as those characters around them – this book really brought this world to life, and I loved every second spent in it.”
– Olivia, @onemused
