The Closest I’ve Come

The Closest I’ve Come by Fred Aceves, published by HarperCollins on November 7, 2017, is a young adult fiction novel that explores the challenges faced by its protagonist, Marcos Rivas. At 320 pages, this edition delves into themes of social issues, including physical and emotional abuse, prejudice, and the complexities of life in the United States, particularly within Hispanic and Latino communities. Marcos yearns for connection and a better life, navigating his difficult environment while seeking love and acceptance.
In this narrative, readers will find Marcos’s journey as he joins a new after-school program, where he forms friendships with Zach and Amy that encourage him to confront his struggles and aspirations. The story emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-discovery, illustrating that true bravery lies in being oneself rather than conforming to societal expectations. The Closest I’ve Come presents a poignant exploration of personal growth and the impact of relationships on one’s outlook and future.
Official synopsis Publisher
A Kirkus Best Book of 2017 * A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year * An ALA/YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults Selection
Read the book Morris Award finalist Sonia Patel called “a brilliant, subtle debut,” and Kirkus hailed as “heart-wrenching, funny, hopeful, and not-to-be-missed” in a starred review!
The Closest I’ve Come is a must-read from talented first-time author Fred Aceves, in the tradition of Walter Dean Myers.
Marcos Rivas yearns for love, a working cell phone, and maybe a pair of sneakers that aren’t falling apart. But more than anything, Marcos wants to get out of Maesta, his hood, away from his indifferent mom and her abusive boyfriend—which seems impossible.
When Marcos is placed in a new after-school program, he meets Zach and Amy, whose friendship inspires Marcos to open up to his Maesta crew, too, and starts to think more about his future and what he has to fight for. Marcos ultimately learns that bravery isn’t about acting tough and being macho; it’s about being true to yourself.
The Closest I’ve Come is a story about traversing real and imagined boundaries, about discovering new things in the world, and about discovering yourself, too.
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