Yadriel

Yadriel, a Hispanic transgender teenage boy, is the main character of the novel. Yadriel’s family is composed of brujos, members of the magical community who are able to communicate with the spirits as well as heal those around them. They are Mexican-Americans with strong ties to their family members who remained in Mexico, and the novel often employs a mix of Spanish and English to emphasize the importance of their heritage.

Yadriel came out as transgender years ago, but he has struggled to gain the acceptance of his father. His late mother accepted him exactly as he was, and so his father’s frostier reception is incredibly hurtful. As the novel progresses, Yadriel grows increasingly comfortable with who he is and he does not need his father’s acceptance. Yadriel explores his sexuality and the beginnings of adulthood through his relationship with Julian, a lost spirit. Julian...