Lulu and Milagro's Search for Clarity
on Goodreads (482)
What’s inside...
Booksmart meets Never Have I Ever in this Latinx road trip adventure—a big-hearted, voice-driven YA about two sisters who couldn’t be more different, but become begrudging partners on their school’s cross-country college trip—from debut author Angela Velez. Overachiever Luz “Lulu” Zavala has straight As, perfect attendance, and a solid ten-year plan. First up: nail her interview for a dream internship at Stanford, the last stop on her school’s cross-country college road trip. The only flaw in her plan is Clara, her oldest sister, who went off to college and sparked a massive fight with their overprotective Peruvian mom, who is now convinced that out-of-state-college will destroy their family. If Lulu can’t fix whatever went wrong between them, the whole trip—and her future—will be a waste. Middle sister Milagro wants nothing to do with college, or a nerdy class field trip. Then a spot opens up on the trip just as her own Spring Break plans (Operation: Lose Your Virginity) are thwarted, and she hops on the bus with her glittery lipsticks, more concerned about getting back at her ex than she is about schools or any family drama. But the trip opens her eyes about possibilities she’d never imagined for herself. Maybe she is more than the boy-crazy girl everyone seems to think she is. On a journey from Baltimore all the way to San Francisco, Lulu and Milagro will become begrudging partners as they unpack weighty family expectations, uncover Clara’s secrets, and maybe even discover the true meaning of sisterhood.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Lulu and Milagro to go on their road trip? How would you feel in their situation?
How do the sisters' personalities complement each other? Can you think of examples from the book or from our own family?
Lulu and Milagro face many challenges on their journey. Discuss a time when you overcame a difficult challenge. What did you learn from it?
Identity is a key theme in this book. How do the characters explore and express their identities? How do you express your own identity?
The book highlights the importance of family. What does family mean to you? How do we support each other like Lulu and Milagro?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create an open and relaxed environment for the discussion, maybe during a family meal or a designated reading time.
Use examples from the book to guide your questions and relate them back to your child’s experiences to make it more relatable.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they would react in similar situations as the characters.
Praise your child’s responses to affirm their thoughts and feelings, and follow up with additional questions to deepen the conversation.
Connect themes from the book to real-life events or family experiences to make the discussion more engaging and meaningful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family and support systems
Explanation: Throughout the journey in 'Lulu and Milagro's Search for Clarity', the sisters rely on each other and their family for guidance and support, emphasizing the strength derived from familial bonds.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of having supportive family and friends in overcoming challenges and making important decisions.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: As the protagonists venture on a quest to uncover family secrets, they simultaneously embark on a path of self-discovery, learning more about their desires and capabilities.
Real-World Application: This story can inspire children to explore their own interests and abilities, encouraging personal growth and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: Lulu and Milagro encounter various challenges on their journey that require them to think critically and solve problems effectively, showcasing their development of these crucial skills.
Real-World Application: Children can apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills learned from the story to academic challenges and everyday dilemmas.
Example Lesson: Cultural awareness and appreciation
Explanation: The book delves into the sisters' Latinx heritage, fostering a respect and understanding of cultural diversity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to learn about and appreciate diverse cultures, promoting inclusivity and empathy in real-world interactions.