"Alessandri’s latest explores classic middle school themes of trying to fit in versus being yourself, and readers will see themselves and their peers in both Luchy and Cami. The infusion of Colombian cultural elements and Spanish phrases makes this stand out.

A sincere journey of navigating friendship and self-discovery."

– Kirkus Reviews

"Funny and relatable, Grow Up, Luchy Zapata will have you rooting for Luchy even as she makes some questionable decisions--glitter, anyone?--in an effort to win her best friend back. This one is a must for any kid navigating the roller-coaster of a friendship breakup."

– Andrea Beatriz Arango, Newbery Honor-winning author of Iveliz Explains It All and Something Like Home

"A heartfelt exploration of changing friendships and the challenges of growing up. Alessandri presents a pitch-perfect story with a main character young readers will relate to and cheer for as Luchy navigates a new school and evolving relationships."

– Adrianna Cuevas, author of Pura Belpré Honor Book The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez and Cuba in My Pocket

"The perfect book for those awkward middle school years. Luchy is the hero every reader in between childhood and adolescence needs--messy, relatable, and remarkable!"

– Amanda Rawson Hill, author of The Hope of Elephants

"Alessandri not only captures Luchy’s painful–and painfully relatable–experiences, but also beautifully seasons the story with Colombian food, culture, and art as Luchy tries to figure out her place in not only middle school but also her community."

– Anika Fajardo, author of What If a Fish and Meet Me Halfway