Call Me Henri

by Lorraine López

Enrique, a young boy at the heart of Lorraine López's novel, faces abuse at home and danger on the barrio streets. Yet he is driven to succeed by the desire to join that "other America" he sees on TV and in the movies, and is aided in his quest by compassionate teachers. His ambition finds expression in his determination to drop his ESL class in favor of taking French, and his story begins, Call me Henri.Lorraine López (author of Soy la Avon Lady and Other Stories) has created a vivid picture of barrio life, filled with honesty, insight, and humor for young adults. She paints a balanced and detailed landscape of Enrique's world. Although Enrique is confused and angered by his mother's refusal to stand up for him against the abuse of his stepfather, he also draws strength from the supportive and loving family of his friend Francisco. While some of his teachers are uncaring or inept, others provide help and encouragement at critical moments in his life.

When Enrique witnesses his friend Horacio gunned down in a drive-by shooting and is seen by the assailants, gang members set out to kill him. As the novel reaches its climax, Enrique must make some agonizing decisions.

Although specifically about barrio life, this novel is universal in its themes—the drive for success, the desire for love and family support, and the need for true friendship. López's fully delineated characters provide a rich and credible mural of our human comedy.

Genres: Young Adult

242 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2006

Reviews

[Katie Devaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a enjoyable, realistic young adult fiction read. The main character is relatable and represents a population of students that isn't often written about. I recommend it for secondary educators and students.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

The character in this book, Enrique, has a realistic voice. Enrique is a middle schooler who would like to take French more than anything, but has to get through a certain level of ESL to even be considered. He lives in an urban apartment setting and takes care of triplet baby brothers while his mom works. Although I thought the ending was weak, "Henri" shines.

[Karen]

im on page 2 i like how they stared the book its making it intristing and fun.