Book Review: It’s All or Nothing, Vale by Andrea Beatriz Arango
When I picked up It’s All or Nothing, Vale, I was drawn in by the promise of a heartfelt exploration of adolescence wrapped in prose. I’ve always appreciated stories that tackle tough subjects, and knowing that Andrea Beatriz Arango would dive into issues of chronic pain and identity intrigued me even more. There’s something about books that reflect our struggles and joys, particularly in that tumultuous middle grade phase, that can stick with us for years.
At the heart of the story is Vale, a young girl navigating her newfound reality as a disabled person. The internalized ableism she grapples with is depicted so authentically that it struck a chord in me. Vale’s journey from self-doubt to growth is a testament to how complex and messy the process can be. As someone who’s witnessed the ways chronic pain can alter family dynamics, I appreciated how Arango addresses the nuances of being the only disabled person in a household. The relationships Vale has with her family members are multifaceted; sometimes, their attempts to help come across as unintentional hurdles rather than support.
The sweetness of first crushes is another highlight, brimming with the awkwardness and confusion that so often accompany them. Vale’s initial denial of her feelings was not only relatable but amusing, which kept me turning pages. The tender friendship with Myrka, peppered with doubt about each other’s intentions, felt genuine and reflective of how friendships can shift in the wake of personal challenges.
One detail that sparked my curiosity was Vale’s shifting friendship with Stephanie. The ambiguous fallout between them could easily frustrate readers, yet I found it refreshing. Arango portrays the complexities of relationships with incredible depth; two truths can indeed coexist, such as loving someone who also lets you down. The interactions between Vale and Amanda, filled with warmth, showcased that help doesn’t have to feel like pity.
The prose itself is engaging, although I found it lacked a certain richness that would make it truly unforgettable. The free verse format was accessible and made for a swift read, but I wished for more memorable lines that would linger long after reading. While some emotions hit strongly, others felt a bit muted. The resolution wrapped up quite quickly, leaving me wanting more depth, particularly concerning Vale’s parents, who seemed to fade into the background.
Though It’s All or Nothing, Vale might not be the apex of Arango’s oeuvre, I still found it a rewarding read. It expertly navigates themes of identity, friendship, and the journey of self-acceptance, resonating particularly with those who know the challenges of growing up with a unique perspective.
I’d recommend this book to middle-grade readers or anyone interested in stories that bring light to issues of disability and friendship without sugarcoating their complexities. For me, it was a reminder of how crucial it is to reflect on our relationships, our identities, and the challenges that come with growing up. Andrea Beatriz Arango left me curious about what she might have in store next, and I look forward to diving into her future works.
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