Starred Review for Kirkus Reviews (Thu Apr 28 00:00:00 CDT 2022)

As a mayoral candidate ushers in a surge of harsher anti-immigrant rhetoric and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids across Coast City, a young hero discovers within herself the courage and hope needed to take a stand.It's a pivotal period in Jessica Cruz's life, with her junior year of high school bringing college-related deadlines, a museum fellowship, and rigorous academic work. There's also the undocumented status she shares with her parents weighing on her mind as well as a complicated Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals renewal form. Though the pressures of school, her family's expectations, and her DACA status fall heavily on Jessica's shoulders, the growing success of xenophobic candidate Fernanda Villamontes and the increasing presence of ICE in her community exacerbate the ever looming threat of deportation, enough to make a permanent return to Mexico appealing for her and her family. Then Jessica's nightmares come true when her father is arrested by ICE agents. Feeling isolated, Jessica grapples with her fears in dreams in which Aztec gods-Chalchiuhtlicue, Goddess of the Jade Skirt, and Tezcatlipoca, God of the Smoking Mirror-pull her between love and anger, friendship and conflict. Bolstered by some excellently vibrant, folk-art–flavored illustration, this DC hero's origin story deftly weaves in contemporary societal issues with a cleareyed optimism that encourages and informs. Still, it's a heart-wrenching read at times. In the end, a community's strength and resolve prove crucial.A beautifully executed, much-needed portrayal. (Graphic fiction. 14-18)

School Library Journal Starred Review (Wed Dec 01 00:00:00 CST 2021)

Gr 7 Up Rivera and Steph C. put a contemporary YA spin on DC Comics character Jessica Cruz. Instead of protecting the cosmos as a Green Lantern, she's an undocumented high schooler under immense pressure. Jessica's family expects her to submit DACA paperwork and earn a college degree, but ICE raids and xenophobic politics in her community leave her wondering if going to Mexico with her parents would be better. Aztec gods visit her to give advice that alternately pushes her toward reasoned advocacy and reactionary anger. Friends in her school and neighborhood provide encouragement and some semblance of a social life between class assignments. Though Jessica may not be clad in spandex, her ability to navigate her emotions and speak up for herself make her a more realistic hero, whether taking on ICE agents or her classmates' privilege. The palette highlights Jessica's emotional state, starting with the trademark calming green she will one day wear as part of a Green Lantern uniform. Red and yellow are used for scenes of vulnerability, including spotlight effects that emphasize Jessica's anxiety. VERDICT Readers seeking a relatable role model dealing with real-world issues and effecting change will find a true hero in Jessica Cruz. Thomas Maluck, Richland Lib., SC

Kirkus Reviews (Fri Oct 04 00:00:00 CDT 2024)

As a mayoral candidate ushers in a surge of harsher anti-immigrant rhetoric and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids across Coast City, a young hero discovers within herself the courage and hope needed to take a stand.It's a pivotal period in Jessica Cruz's life, with her junior year of high school bringing college-related deadlines, a museum fellowship, and rigorous academic work. There's also the undocumented status she shares with her parents weighing on her mind as well as a complicated Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals renewal form. Though the pressures of school, her family's expectations, and her DACA status fall heavily on Jessica's shoulders, the growing success of xenophobic candidate Fernanda Villamontes and the increasing presence of ICE in her community exacerbate the ever looming threat of deportation, enough to make a permanent return to Mexico appealing for her and her family. Then Jessica's nightmares come true when her father is arrested by ICE agents. Feeling isolated, Jessica grapples with her fears in dreams in which Aztec gods-Chalchiuhtlicue, Goddess of the Jade Skirt, and Tezcatlipoca, God of the Smoking Mirror-pull her between love and anger, friendship and conflict. Bolstered by some excellently vibrant, folk-art–flavored illustration, this DC hero's origin story deftly weaves in contemporary societal issues with a cleareyed optimism that encourages and informs. Still, it's a heart-wrenching read at times. In the end, a community's strength and resolve prove crucial.A beautifully executed, much-needed portrayal. (Graphic fiction. 14-18)