What Can't Wait, by Ashley Hope Pérez
Reviewed by Isabella, age 14, New Jersey
Marisa is a strong and admirable character, remaining resilient even in her less-than-ideal surroundings where girls become pregnant at a young age and few people go to college. At all costs, she's loyal to her family, even skipping school to help out her mess of a sister and giving all the money she earns to her struggling parents. But when the time comes, she grapples with the decision between her needs and her family's, and Ashley Hope Pérez beautifully portrays this conflict without being overbearing or preachy.
Despite the plot flaws, this is a story of family, of overcoming hardships, and ultimately, of determining identity. Honest and real, this is not a book that shies away from difficult topics but rather meets them head-on. Though some may wish for the themes to be more deeply explored, What Can't Wait remains a gritty and inspiring story that will resonate with readers of all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
I give What Can't Wait, by Ashley Hope Pérez, 3 out of 5 stars.
