
A girl uncovers her family's wrestling legacy while grappling with adoption and identity.
Twelve-year-old Addie Ramírez faces a life-changing decision when her stepfather proposes adoption. Amidst a school play and a new sibling on the way, Addie discovers a hidden photo that leads her to the Bravos, her estranged family of legendary luchadores. As she meets her grandparents, twin cousins, and her biological father, Addie must navigate the complexities of family ties and identity. Will she embrace her wrestling heritage or forge her own path? Unmasking secrets and finding her place, Addie learns that family is about more than just legacy—it's about showing up and facing challenges together.
From the award-winning author of The First Rule of Punk and Strange Birds, a dazzling novel about a young girl who collects the missing pieces of her origin story from the family of legendary luchadores she’s never met. A 2023 Pura Belpré Author Honor Book Twelve-year-old Adela “Addie” Ramírez has a big decision to make when her stepfather proposes adoption. Addie loves Alex, the only father figure she’s ever known, but with a new half brother due in a few months and a big school theater performance on her mind, everything suddenly feels like it’s moving too fast. She has a million questions, and the first is about the young man in the photo she found hidden away in her mother’s things. Addie’s sleuthing takes her to a New Mexico ranch, and her world expands to include the legendary Bravos: Rosie and Pancho, her paternal grandparents and former professional wrestlers; Eva and Maggie, her older identical twin cousins who love to spar in and out of the ring; Uncle Mateo, whose lucha couture and advice are unmatched; and Manny, her biological father, who’s in the midst of a career comeback. As luchadores, the Bravos’s legacy is strong. But being part of a family is so much harder–it’s about showing up, taking off your mask, and working through challenges together. COVER MAY VARY.
Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.
Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.