Allie, First at Last: A Wish Novel

About this book

Allie Velasco wants to be a trailblazer.
A trendsetter.
A winner.

No better feeling exists in the world than stepping to the top of a winner’s podium and hoisting a trophy high in the air. At least, that’s what Allie thinks . . . she’s never actually won anything before. Everyone in her family is special in some way -- her younger sister is a rising TV star; her brother is a soccer prodigy; her great-grandfather is a Congressional Medal of Honor winner.

With a family like this, Allie knows she has to make her mark or risk being left behind. She’s determined to add a shiny medal, blue ribbon, or beautiful trophy to her family’s
award shelf. When a prestigious school contest is announced, Allie has the perfect opportunity to take first -- at last. There’s just one small snag . . . her biggest competition is also her ex-best friend, Sara. Can Allie take top prize and win back a friend -- or is she destined to lose it all?

Reviews

Praise for Allie, First at Last:

"A sweet middle-grade read that promotes compassion and empathy over competitiveness." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Laced with Mexican-American language and culture, this realistic drama is filled with gentle humor, big lessons, and even bigger heart." -- Publishers Weekly

Praise for Gaby, Lost and Found:

“A timely, touching and nuanced portrayal of real-life challenges experienced by

children in mixed-status families.”-- Kirkus Reviews

“An emotionally compelling story.” – School Library Journal

“A timely and important story about immigration, deportation, and abandonment

wrapped in a warm-hearted tale that will appeal to all.” -- Sonia Manzano, Emmy

Award-winning actress who plays “Maria” on Sesame Street and Pura Belpre Honor

Award-winning author of The Revolution of Evelyn Serrano.