Iveliz Explains It All by Andrea Beatriz Arango 
Published: 2022
Genre: Poetry, Mental Health, Realistic Fiction,
Audience: Grades 7-12
Content Warnings: Mental Health Issues, Death
Reviewer: Heather Kent
Book Cover Summary:
How do you speak up when it feels like no one is listening? One girl takes on seventh grade while facing mental health challenges, and must find her voice to advocate for the help and understanding she deserves.
Listen up:
The end of elementary school?
Worst time of my life.
And the start of middle school?
I just wasn't quite right.
But this year?
YO VOY A MI.
Seventh grade is going to be Iveliz's year. She's going to make a new friend, help her abuela Mimi get settled after moving from Puerto Rico, and she is not going to get into any more trouble at school . . .
Except is that what happens? Of course not. Because no matter how hard Iveliz tries, sometimes people say things that just make her so mad. And worse, Mimi keeps saying Iveliz's medicine is unnecessary--even though it helps Iveliz feel less sad. But how do you explain your feelings to others when you're not even sure what's going on yourself?
Review
"Iveliz Explains It All" by Andrea Beatriz Arango is a novel that delves into the complexities of mental health, grief, and the power of self-expression. The story is told through the diary entries of Iveliz, a twelve-year-old girl navigating the challenges of middle school while coping with the loss of her father and her struggles with anxiety and depression. Arango does not shy away from depicting the difficulties Iveliz faces, but she also emphasizes the importance of seeking help and finding healthy outlets for one's emotions. The supportive relationships in Iveliz's life, particularly with her grandmother and therapist, are portrayed with warmth and care, showing the importance of a strong support system. I followed Iveliz’s journey of self acceptance and find the true meaning of friendship.
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