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Ave, a nonbinary middle schooler, moves with their family to the United States after growing up in Mexicali, Mexico. Ave struggles to assimilate, unlike their younger brother who chooses a more English-sounding nickname and prefers speaking in English. Ave is also struggling because their family is separated. Their father and older sister have stayed behind in Mexicali. As Ave struggles, they find a supportive group of friends. It's a moving reflection of culture, identity, and change.

The artwork is gentle and welcoming even when showcasing the vast desert landscape of Mexicali or the imposing architecture on the University of Kansas campus. Ave's gender is explored through clothing, hair, and makeup choices that showcase the character's fluid identity. While US-Mexican border relations are touched on, the story keeps a generally lighthearted tone.

Thank you Random House Children's for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.