Ana María Reyes Does Not Live in a Castle

By Hilda Burgos

Ana María must balance family chaos and piano practice to win a scholarship.

4.1/5 Goodreads · 274 ratings

288 pages

$18.95Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Ana María Reyes, a determined Dominican American girl in New York City, dreams of escaping her crowded apartment for a prestigious school. With a new sibling on the way, she must perfect her piano skills amidst family chaos and neighborhood distractions. Can Ana María rise above the noise and secure her future, or will her dreams be drowned out by the clamor of her lively life? As she navigates friendships and family dynamics, Ana María discovers what truly matters and learns that success is within her reach, even without a crown.

From the publisher

The Penderwicks meets In the Heights in this sparkling middle-grade debut about a young Dominican American girl in New York City. Her last name may mean kings, but Ana María Reyes REALLY does not live in a castle. Rather, she’s stuck in a tiny apartment with two parents (way too lovey-dovey), three sisters (way too dramatic), everyone’s friends (way too often), and a piano (which she never gets to practice). And when her parents announce a new baby is coming, that means they’ll have even less time for Ana María. Then she hears about the Eleanor School, New York City’s best private academy. If Ana María can win a scholarship, she’ll be able to get out of her Washington Heights neighborhood school and achieve the education she’s longed for. To stand out, she’ll need to nail her piano piece at the upcoming city showcase, which means she has to practice through her sisters’ hijinks, the neighbors’ visits, a family trip to the Dominican Republic . . . right up until the baby’s birth! But some new friends and honest conversations help her figure out what truly matters, and know that she can succeed no matter what. Ana María Reyes may not be royal, but she’s certain to come out on top.

At a glance