Abuela, Don't Forget Me

Wonderful addition to our church library. Highly recommend!

Rex Ogle continues to amaze me with the power and punch of his words. Fellow poet and verse novelist Kwame Alexander says something to the effect of poetry being the building blocks of all writing, that a writer can tell an entire story in just a few words. Both men have this gift - students think they like verse novels because they are short/have only a few words on a page, but really they like them because they are well written and each poem tells a tiny story of its own. I don't think it is necessary to have read Free Lunch before reading Abeula Don't Forget Me, but I think it helped frame my mindset, knowing the relationship child Rex had with his mother, the effects of poverty casting a shadow over their relationship. Rex Ogle is a gifted wordsmith, and I cannot wait to share his newest story with my students; it is an incredible and beautifully written story. Thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to preview #AbuelaDontForgetMe - what a powerful piece of art.

Rex's books are always so poignant, so honest. They will hurt your heart, but at the same time give you such hope. What a beautiful story of the abundance of love Rex's abuela has for him. She was the light that kept shining, despite the many terrible things he went through. Grandparents can truly be such gifts to this world.

The rawness of the character’s voice and the reality of some situations in this story will resonate with many readers. Rex, had his Abuela to provide the love, security, and safety as he goes through life and rites of passage as many children have in life. This is a must read to nurture empathy and understand in youth.

Rex Ogle’s writing is so strong and this novel in verse really pulled the emotions right to the front and center. I loved this tribute to his abuela.

I just finished reading this book, written in verse, and while it's heartbreaking in parts, it's a magnificent reminder that kids all need someone to nurture them, support them, guide them, and accept them. The more the story unfolded, the more grateful I was that Rex had his Abuela. While this book isn't a long one, it made a very large impact on me.

I loved this novel written in verse. It was heartwarming. Cleverly laid out to flow smoothly. Beautifully written poems. What an amazing tribute to his Abula. A must-read.