With the Fire on High

With the Fire on High
by Elizabeth Acevedo
HarperTeen, 2019. 392 pages. Young Adult

Emoni knows that as a teen mom, odds are stacked against her. So she works hard, at school, her job, and at raising her daughter, determined to not be a burden on her Abuela or an absent parent like her own father. Anyone who knows her also knows that she has a near-magical gift for cooking. When her school offers a culinary arts class, Emoni's excitement turns to frustration; the more she learns, the more her long-buried dream of becoming a chef comes bubbling to the surface. Her teachers and friends encourage her, but Emoni knows she chose a life of responsibility and sacrifice when she had her daughter. Does she dare let herself dream now, with all that rests on her shoulders?

I really loved this author's debut novel last year, THE POET X , so I was excited to get my hands on this one. WITH THE FIRE ON HIGH is a little different, being written in prose rather than in verse, but shines equally bright. With wonderfully developed characters, especially protagonist Emoni, and relatable and immersive storytelling, Acevedo also has a talent for addressing complicated topics in an honest, realistic way that never feels too heavy. Emoni is a wonderful soul, a loving, introspective girl ready to take her place in the world, and you'll be better for knowing her.

MW