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?
Awards & Reviews
“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
- International Latino Book Award Nominee for Best Youth Chapter Fiction Novel (2016)
- Florida’s Sunshine State Young Readers Award Nominee; Grades 3rd-5th (2017-2018)
- South Carolina Book Award Nominee 2018-2019
