Summary

Part One, “The Sour,” begins with a recipe from Emoni: “When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemon Verbena Tembleque.” Emoni Santiago notes that this recipe is best served “When you are missing someone you love” and she presumably makes it one the day her two-year-old daughter is heading off to daycare for the first time (3). Emoni is returning to Schomburg Charter High School to complete her senior year and Emma is going to Mama Clara’s daycare. Emoni and Emma live with Emoni’s paternal grandmother, ‘Buela. Emoni describes how she chose Emma’s name, as it is a name that “doesn’t tell you much before you meet her” (9). Tyrone, Emma’s father, wanted another name but he was late when the birth certificate was filled out. Tyrone’s relationship with Emoni can be a challenge, but Emoni tries her best to...