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Tethered to Other Stars
Perfect for fans of Efrén Divided and A Good Kind of Trouble, this luminous middle grade debut follows a tween girl navigating the devastating impact of ICE’s looming presence on her family and community.
Seventh grader Wendy Toledo knows that black holes and immigration police have one thing in they can both make things disappear without a trace. When her family moves to a new all-American neighborhood, Wendy knows the keep her head down, build a telescope that will win the science fair, and stay on her family’s safe orbit.
But that’s easier said than done when there’s a woman hiding out from ICE agents in the church across the alley—and making Wendy’s parents very nervous.
As bullying at school threatens Wendy’s friendships and her hopes for the science fair, and her family’s secrets start to unravel, Wendy finds herself caught in the middle of far too many gravitational pulls. When someone she loves is detained by ICE, Wendy must find the courage to set her own orbit—and maybe shift the paths of everyone around her.
Seventh grader Wendy Toledo knows that black holes and immigration police have one thing in they can both make things disappear without a trace. When her family moves to a new all-American neighborhood, Wendy knows the keep her head down, build a telescope that will win the science fair, and stay on her family’s safe orbit.
But that’s easier said than done when there’s a woman hiding out from ICE agents in the church across the alley—and making Wendy’s parents very nervous.
As bullying at school threatens Wendy’s friendships and her hopes for the science fair, and her family’s secrets start to unravel, Wendy finds herself caught in the middle of far too many gravitational pulls. When someone she loves is detained by ICE, Wendy must find the courage to set her own orbit—and maybe shift the paths of everyone around her.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2023
15 people are currently reading
2570 people want to read
About the author
Elisa Stone Leahy
2 books68 followersElisa Stone Leahy is a queer, Peruvian American children’s author who lives with her husband and kids in Columbus, Ohio. Her first middle grade book, Tethered to Other Stars, was a finalist for the Cybils Award and the Ohioana Book Award, made the 2024 Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choices list, the Bank Street Best Children’s Books of the Year list, and received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, which called it “beautifully executed.” Her second book, Mallory in Full Color, was a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection, made the NYPL Best Books for Kids list, was named on SLJ’s Best Books of 2024 list, and received starred reviews from The Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books and School Library Journal, which called it “a must-read.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
April 10, 2023
This is one of the best books I have read ALL year. It tells the story of one family trying to protect each other and keep each other safe. Over the course of the book we see Wendy, Tom, and both of their parents gradually gain the courage to return to the fight and do what is right, even when it’s scary or uncertain. As an educator I saw many parallels to students I have taught over the years. I think this book will serve as a mirror for those who have gone through similar experiences and a window for those who have not, to better understand and gain compassion. I especially recommend this book to ALL adults in our country.
December 1, 2022
Elisa’s writing is incredible and I love it.
April 12, 2024
This book is just...wow. It's geared towards 8-12 year olds, but EVERYONE needs to read this book as it does a phenomenal job of addressing many challenging topics, including immigration, deportation, ICE, bullying, racism, hateful rhetoric, etc. What I loved most about this book is how (unfortunately) realistic the details of the book are. Leahy does a wonderful job of really understanding and conveying the perspective of those who live in fear because of their status. Leahy does not shy away from hard things, and that is so necessary. Wow. Wow. WOW.
April 1, 2023
This book has my heart. Is was heartbreaking, heart warming, and powerful with so many important topics, that were nice to see through the eyes of a child. This was beautifully written and everything was well fleshed out.
May 13, 2023
Just wow. So many layers, with an excellent middle school voice about how to do “what’s right” when nothing is right.
November 19, 2023
Full disclosure: I went to school with the author and happily volunteered to read an early version of the book. Midgrade isn’t my typical reading (unless you include Harry Potter) so I may not have a lot to compare it to. I’d like to leave a well-informed and thoughtful review and not sound trite. Here goes:
I LOVED this book. It moved me to tears multiple times. Elisa does EXACTLY what we need more of today - she tells stories that break down barriers and help us see others from outside our limited perspective (yay for parallax!). I look forward to reading this with my kids and sharing with others. Elisa is an important new voice in fiction and I can’t wait to read whatever is next!
I LOVED this book. It moved me to tears multiple times. Elisa does EXACTLY what we need more of today - she tells stories that break down barriers and help us see others from outside our limited perspective (yay for parallax!). I look forward to reading this with my kids and sharing with others. Elisa is an important new voice in fiction and I can’t wait to read whatever is next!
July 25, 2023
Astronomy, telescopes, family, immigration, racism, bullying, diversity, secrets, and knowing when to fight for what's right . . . these are just a few things you will experience in this beautifully complex story by Elisa Stone Leahy
Have you ever found yourself in a situation that you knew wasn't right? Have you ever just stood there, not saying anything, not wanting to rock the boat? Maybe staying out of things seemed the best course of action. That's always been the case for Wendy Toledo. Born to Latinx immigrants, Wendy is solidly American and doesn't understand why her father's constant concern for her family to remain invisible to immigration police. The goal has always been to act American, to be American, and to draw as little attention to herself as possible. But maybe it's not just OK, but even imperative to step out of line and create your own orbit every once in a while.
When Wendy starts her life at a new school, she befriends a cast of diverse characters who support each other staunchly through small acts of bullying at school. However, over time the bullying becomes more aggressive. Not only that, but the illegal immigrant seeking asylum in the church across the street from her house brings the immigration police much closer to her family's home than the ever wanted. As Wendy's concerns for her family grow, tension increases at school as the bullying intensifies to the point that she may no longer be eligible to win the astronomy internship she longs for. Meanwhile, at home, one of her family members is detained by ICE and her whole world spins out of control. She must find her own orbit, her own voice to make things right.
I loved the complexity of Wendy's character, and honestly, the complexity of the story as a whole. There were times that I was frustrated that Wendy wasn't speaking up for herself, but as the story progressed, it became clear why. Watching her growth and, really, the growth of all the characters, was so beautiful. There are some intense moments in this story and plenty of situations and conversations that really made me think. I have often wondered what it might be like for the children involved in immigration disputes, and this sheds true light on the challenges they face.
I have to warn you, this is a tear jerker, but it is such a beautiful story of humanity, of understanding that there is more to a person that meets the eye, of finding the strength to loose the tether and find your own orbit, your own voice, even when it's scary to speak up. I highly recommend this one for ages 10+
Have you ever found yourself in a situation that you knew wasn't right? Have you ever just stood there, not saying anything, not wanting to rock the boat? Maybe staying out of things seemed the best course of action. That's always been the case for Wendy Toledo. Born to Latinx immigrants, Wendy is solidly American and doesn't understand why her father's constant concern for her family to remain invisible to immigration police. The goal has always been to act American, to be American, and to draw as little attention to herself as possible. But maybe it's not just OK, but even imperative to step out of line and create your own orbit every once in a while.
When Wendy starts her life at a new school, she befriends a cast of diverse characters who support each other staunchly through small acts of bullying at school. However, over time the bullying becomes more aggressive. Not only that, but the illegal immigrant seeking asylum in the church across the street from her house brings the immigration police much closer to her family's home than the ever wanted. As Wendy's concerns for her family grow, tension increases at school as the bullying intensifies to the point that she may no longer be eligible to win the astronomy internship she longs for. Meanwhile, at home, one of her family members is detained by ICE and her whole world spins out of control. She must find her own orbit, her own voice to make things right.
I loved the complexity of Wendy's character, and honestly, the complexity of the story as a whole. There were times that I was frustrated that Wendy wasn't speaking up for herself, but as the story progressed, it became clear why. Watching her growth and, really, the growth of all the characters, was so beautiful. There are some intense moments in this story and plenty of situations and conversations that really made me think. I have often wondered what it might be like for the children involved in immigration disputes, and this sheds true light on the challenges they face.
I have to warn you, this is a tear jerker, but it is such a beautiful story of humanity, of understanding that there is more to a person that meets the eye, of finding the strength to loose the tether and find your own orbit, your own voice, even when it's scary to speak up. I highly recommend this one for ages 10+
June 21, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Wendy and Tom Toledo's family have moved from Melborn, where ICE was conducting random raids, to Columbus, Ohio. They've bought a very run down house that their father hopes to renovate. Wendy is okay with the move, since she can tell how upset her parents were, and she's glad to be going to Leopold Preparatory School, which is specifically for able and talented students. They even partner with the planetarium at Ohio State University. Since Wendy is passionate about astronomy, she is glad to attend. She meets several nice kids there, including Etta, whose mother is the pastor of the church next door to the Toledos, K.K. who has a background in student government, and Mal, who takes the time to explain the other kids to Wendy. She also meets Brett, whom she thinks is kind of cute. Other students, like Avery and B.J., are very unkind and seem to have parents who do not like that the school has become more diverse. At home, Dulce Toledo struggles with getting the house cleaned and repaired, and Wendy realizes that while her mother used to go out to work, she has been staying at home more. She is also very concerned that the family does not get involved with Etta's church. Luz, a woman who has been struggling with immigration for years, has taken sanctuary in the church because the ICE agents are trying to remove her. Etta seems to find this exciting, but Etta finds pretty much EVERYTHING exciting. (Don't we all know those middle school students who are "a little much"?) Wendy is perfectly happy to ignore the events in her neighborhood, but her brother Tom isn't. He even quits the cross country team to get involved in issues of social justice. Wendy does help K.K. run for student council, and her new friend group is dismayed at how K.K. is treated when her campaign poster is defaced. When Etta and Wendy find some papers in Wendy's new attic bedroom, Wendy starts to have some questions about her parents' background. She was always told that her father was born in South Carolina, and he very vehemently tells the family (around the mandatory dinner table, which I loved!) that Luz' immigration status is of no interest to them at all because they "did things the right way". Wendy has to deal with a host of microaggressions from Brett and his friends, and is not happy when he handles a project they are working on in a particularly inappropriate way. WHen her family's past comes to light, however, Wendy has bigger issues to worry about.
Strengths: Wendy is an engaging character who has many interests. While the main plot of the story revolves around issues of immigration status, I love that it is well grounded in Wendy's daily life of going to school, making friends, and dealing with a crush. Too often, middle school books ignore the details of school life in favor of larger issues. This makes sense, but it makes a book so much better when my students can identify with Wendy's crush, or her science fair project. It's easier for them to be empathetic about her larger problems when they know they share her smaller ones. The Toledos are a close knit family, albeit one hiding some big secrets. Tom is a great older brother, and his interests are somewhat different from Wendy's, which makes sense because he is older. I get the feeling that Wendy has been pretty unaware of a lot of sociopolitical issues up until the family moves to Ohio, which makes perfect sense because she is just entering 7th grade. The story moves along quickly, and gets more and more interesting!
Weaknesses: I loved that Mamá has "good" Tupperware as well as yogurt and sour cream containers that she uses around home, but I have a 35 year margarine container that hasn't lost any of the lettering on the side. What is Mamá DOING with these containers? While the parents speak Spanish, and all of Wendy's classmates' and teachers' cultural ties are clearly mentioned (Mal has a Korean grandmother, the art teacher is Black, Etta is gay and vocal about it), Wendy's family's background is skirted around. There are reasons for this, but I have a lot of students, especially Latine ones, who want books with characters from very specific countries. If I can show them the country of interest on the book flap, they get very excited. Not a weakness as much as a missed opportunity. (Her father is from el Salvador and her mother is from Guatemala.)
What I really think: This is blurbed as being similar to Cisneros' Efrén Divided and Ramee's A Good Kind of Trouble, which for once is pretty accurate! I would also recommend this to readers who enjoyed Cervantes' Gaby, Lost and Found, Rose's Look Both Ways in the Barrio Blanco, Sloan's The Elephant in the Room and Hitchcock and Senzai's Flying Over Water.
Wendy and Tom Toledo's family have moved from Melborn, where ICE was conducting random raids, to Columbus, Ohio. They've bought a very run down house that their father hopes to renovate. Wendy is okay with the move, since she can tell how upset her parents were, and she's glad to be going to Leopold Preparatory School, which is specifically for able and talented students. They even partner with the planetarium at Ohio State University. Since Wendy is passionate about astronomy, she is glad to attend. She meets several nice kids there, including Etta, whose mother is the pastor of the church next door to the Toledos, K.K. who has a background in student government, and Mal, who takes the time to explain the other kids to Wendy. She also meets Brett, whom she thinks is kind of cute. Other students, like Avery and B.J., are very unkind and seem to have parents who do not like that the school has become more diverse. At home, Dulce Toledo struggles with getting the house cleaned and repaired, and Wendy realizes that while her mother used to go out to work, she has been staying at home more. She is also very concerned that the family does not get involved with Etta's church. Luz, a woman who has been struggling with immigration for years, has taken sanctuary in the church because the ICE agents are trying to remove her. Etta seems to find this exciting, but Etta finds pretty much EVERYTHING exciting. (Don't we all know those middle school students who are "a little much"?) Wendy is perfectly happy to ignore the events in her neighborhood, but her brother Tom isn't. He even quits the cross country team to get involved in issues of social justice. Wendy does help K.K. run for student council, and her new friend group is dismayed at how K.K. is treated when her campaign poster is defaced. When Etta and Wendy find some papers in Wendy's new attic bedroom, Wendy starts to have some questions about her parents' background. She was always told that her father was born in South Carolina, and he very vehemently tells the family (around the mandatory dinner table, which I loved!) that Luz' immigration status is of no interest to them at all because they "did things the right way". Wendy has to deal with a host of microaggressions from Brett and his friends, and is not happy when he handles a project they are working on in a particularly inappropriate way. WHen her family's past comes to light, however, Wendy has bigger issues to worry about.
Strengths: Wendy is an engaging character who has many interests. While the main plot of the story revolves around issues of immigration status, I love that it is well grounded in Wendy's daily life of going to school, making friends, and dealing with a crush. Too often, middle school books ignore the details of school life in favor of larger issues. This makes sense, but it makes a book so much better when my students can identify with Wendy's crush, or her science fair project. It's easier for them to be empathetic about her larger problems when they know they share her smaller ones. The Toledos are a close knit family, albeit one hiding some big secrets. Tom is a great older brother, and his interests are somewhat different from Wendy's, which makes sense because he is older. I get the feeling that Wendy has been pretty unaware of a lot of sociopolitical issues up until the family moves to Ohio, which makes perfect sense because she is just entering 7th grade. The story moves along quickly, and gets more and more interesting!
Weaknesses: I loved that Mamá has "good" Tupperware as well as yogurt and sour cream containers that she uses around home, but I have a 35 year margarine container that hasn't lost any of the lettering on the side. What is Mamá DOING with these containers? While the parents speak Spanish, and all of Wendy's classmates' and teachers' cultural ties are clearly mentioned (Mal has a Korean grandmother, the art teacher is Black, Etta is gay and vocal about it), Wendy's family's background is skirted around. There are reasons for this, but I have a lot of students, especially Latine ones, who want books with characters from very specific countries. If I can show them the country of interest on the book flap, they get very excited. Not a weakness as much as a missed opportunity. (Her father is from el Salvador and her mother is from Guatemala.)
What I really think: This is blurbed as being similar to Cisneros' Efrén Divided and Ramee's A Good Kind of Trouble, which for once is pretty accurate! I would also recommend this to readers who enjoyed Cervantes' Gaby, Lost and Found, Rose's Look Both Ways in the Barrio Blanco, Sloan's The Elephant in the Room and Hitchcock and Senzai's Flying Over Water.
July 7, 2024
When Wendy's family moves to a new, seemingly idyllic all-American neighborhood, she knows the plan is to keep a low profile, focus on building a telescope that will win the science fair, and stay within the safe confines of her family's "orbit." However, this plan is upended when Wendy discovers a woman hiding from ICE agents in the church across the alley, causing anxiety and fear within her household.
As Wendy faces bullying at her new school, which threatens her friendships and her science fair aspirations, she also grapples with the unraveling of her family's secrets. The pressure mounts when someone she loves is detained by ICE, pushing Wendy to find the courage to navigate her own path and possibly influence the orbits of those around her.
I loved this book for its compelling narrative and the crucial conversations it evokes about race, religion, humanity, etc. The book is beautifully written and profoundly moving, making it an essential read for middle schoolers. It offers a powerful exploration of contemporary issues, encouraging young readers to engage with important topics and develop empathy and understanding. The novel's ability to blend science, personal growth, and social commentary into a cohesive and impactful story makes it a standout in middle-grade fiction. I loved it a lot and believe it has the potential to inspire meaningful discussions and reflections among its readers.
As Wendy faces bullying at her new school, which threatens her friendships and her science fair aspirations, she also grapples with the unraveling of her family's secrets. The pressure mounts when someone she loves is detained by ICE, pushing Wendy to find the courage to navigate her own path and possibly influence the orbits of those around her.
I loved this book for its compelling narrative and the crucial conversations it evokes about race, religion, humanity, etc. The book is beautifully written and profoundly moving, making it an essential read for middle schoolers. It offers a powerful exploration of contemporary issues, encouraging young readers to engage with important topics and develop empathy and understanding. The novel's ability to blend science, personal growth, and social commentary into a cohesive and impactful story makes it a standout in middle-grade fiction. I loved it a lot and believe it has the potential to inspire meaningful discussions and reflections among its readers.
July 8, 2025
5 stars. Ripped from current headlines even tho published in 2023. Wendy and her family moved to Columbus, Ohio. Was it a suburb? What kind of folks in Columbus don’t know all the cultural diversity? Tons of intl students.
Does anyone disappear in middle of night here?
You are American, you speak English
Please don’t go all Nancy Drew on me - Will the intended audience know her?
Bullying, cultural insensitivity
We all have our own North Star guiding us
Brett gaslighter
Does red hat mean MAGA?
Epilogue: Wendy has excellent answer for her internship application question.
Almarie Guerra great on audio
Does anyone disappear in middle of night here?
You are American, you speak English
Please don’t go all Nancy Drew on me - Will the intended audience know her?
Bullying, cultural insensitivity
We all have our own North Star guiding us
Brett gaslighter
Does red hat mean MAGA?
Epilogue: Wendy has excellent answer for her internship application question.
Almarie Guerra great on audio
August 26, 2025
This is a great middle grade book about family, race, and fighting for human rights. Wendy has been taught to keep her head down and not draw attention to her herself or her family. When families start getting deported by ICE, Wendy has to decide if she will stand by or stand up. She is also experiencing bullying at school, racism and micro aggressions. With a strong friend group and family, she finds her voice. I liked the astronomy aspect of it as well, with Wendy’s love of science. No swears, no romance, some bullying incidents, and a physical assault scene with a gun including mild danger. An inclusive read for 6th grade and up.
November 21, 2023
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the author. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
Tethered to Other Stars is a middle grade book that swept me away. It was like one of those waves which builds into a book about activism, family, and friendship. At the beginning, Wendy is in survival mode just trying to keep her head down. As the book progresses, Wendy has to re-examine her and her family's choices to be silent. Silent about the undocumented woman taking refuge in their neighborhood, about the racism her classmates perpetuate, and her own family secrets.
Tethered to Other Stars is a middle grade book that swept me away. It was like one of those waves which builds into a book about activism, family, and friendship. At the beginning, Wendy is in survival mode just trying to keep her head down. As the book progresses, Wendy has to re-examine her and her family's choices to be silent. Silent about the undocumented woman taking refuge in their neighborhood, about the racism her classmates perpetuate, and her own family secrets.
October 20, 2023
This is a very tense, emotional novel but with many valuable lessons.
Parallax: how things look depending on where you are standing
When Wendy thinks she can focus on her daily life and ignore what happens around her, she learns that she is part of it all and that what has always seemed alright is actually a veil of fear silencing the truth. It all starts when Luz takes refuge in the church next door and a spotlight hits their neighborhood.
Themes explored: racism, from micro-aggressions to bullying, oppression, fear, immigration, family issues, social issues, and social equity.
Parallax: how things look depending on where you are standing
When Wendy thinks she can focus on her daily life and ignore what happens around her, she learns that she is part of it all and that what has always seemed alright is actually a veil of fear silencing the truth. It all starts when Luz takes refuge in the church next door and a spotlight hits their neighborhood.
Themes explored: racism, from micro-aggressions to bullying, oppression, fear, immigration, family issues, social issues, and social equity.
May 20, 2025
This is a beautiful and moving story with so many characters to root for. I was engaged from the very beginning, and I appreciate that through different characters' eyes, we get various perspectives that add nuance to a complicated issue. There's so much heart in this story - I highly recommend it. ❤️
June 29, 2023
Parent's/guardians and educators beware! Tethered to Other Stars addresses serious and controversial social and political issues: immigration, social justice, affirmative action, racism, bullying, and more. While the book opened my eyes, as an adult, to the lived experiences of those seeking asylum in the US, I fear that many young readers will not have the context and support to grapple with these issues. I did feel this was a good and worthwhile story- the characters are multidimensional, and the plot is intriguing. The social and political issues would be a great conversation starter, again with the appropriate adult understanding and guidance.
I had one major issue with this book. Throughout the story, there is reference to the main character Wendy's struggle with asthma. When in a stressful situation, Wendy has trouble breathing and relies on her inhaler. While this may in fact be asthma, it seems there is also some anxiety/depression involved. At one of the turning points of the book, we learn, "All she wanted was to leave all of this far behind. She wondered how hard it would be to hold her breath until she passed out." This is a very serious mental health matter, and I felt it was just barely mentioned and then forgotten, with the exception of Wendy's parents briefly mentioning she talk to a therapist a few pages later.
I really struggled with my rating for this book. Despite the powerful main storyline, I cannot give it more stars knowing the seriousness of the issues addressed, some more thoroughly than others, and I fear that will cause more harm than good.
I had one major issue with this book. Throughout the story, there is reference to the main character Wendy's struggle with asthma. When in a stressful situation, Wendy has trouble breathing and relies on her inhaler. While this may in fact be asthma, it seems there is also some anxiety/depression involved. At one of the turning points of the book, we learn, "All she wanted was to leave all of this far behind. She wondered how hard it would be to hold her breath until she passed out." This is a very serious mental health matter, and I felt it was just barely mentioned and then forgotten, with the exception of Wendy's parents briefly mentioning she talk to a therapist a few pages later.
I really struggled with my rating for this book. Despite the powerful main storyline, I cannot give it more stars knowing the seriousness of the issues addressed, some more thoroughly than others, and I fear that will cause more harm than good.
September 2, 2023
Wendy's family has moved to a new safer neighborhood, and Wendy has tested into an elite academy. She's always dreamed of the stars, and her science fair project offers her the perfect chance to study them up close. But the town is plagued with conflict between deciding if they should offer sanctuary to an undocumented worker and protesting affirmative action in schools. Wendy thought her family was all American, but Papa seems to be hiding something, and her older brother Tom is getting restless. Meanwhile, Wendy starts to feel unsafe as a person of color in her school. Wendy isn't sure she can stand up for what's right without putting her family in danger, but she's not sure she can handle being bullied any longer either.
This book is poignant and so well-written that I felt physically sick as Wendy was helplessly experiencing the unfairness around her. I don't like feeling that sick, and I kind of resent it, but at the same time, I'm truly impressed that a little book like this one can make me feel so much. I hate that we live in a world where situations like this are not only plausible but often turn out much worse. This book definitely has an agenda, but it's also personable and welcoming.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
This book is poignant and so well-written that I felt physically sick as Wendy was helplessly experiencing the unfairness around her. I don't like feeling that sick, and I kind of resent it, but at the same time, I'm truly impressed that a little book like this one can make me feel so much. I hate that we live in a world where situations like this are not only plausible but often turn out much worse. This book definitely has an agenda, but it's also personable and welcoming.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 10, 2023
Richie’s Picks: TETHERED TO OTHER STARS by Elisa Stone Leahy, HarperCollins/Quill Tree, October 2023, 320p., ISBN: 978-0-06-325548-7
“How can people be so heartless?
How can people be so cruel?
Easy to be hard
Easy to be cold”
– Galt MacDermot, James Rado, and Gerome Ragni (1967)
“‘Hijabi?’ Mal asked.
‘Someone who wears hijab,’ Yasmin explained. ‘And, yeah, there may be bullies, but I knew that before I decided to wear this.’ She tucked the ends of the pink scarf over her shoulders and looked across the rink toward the rowdy boys. ‘Can we sit back down for a minute?’
‘Have you ever had anyone mess with your hijab?’ K.K. asked as they skated back to their booth.
‘No. I’ve heard about that happening before, though.’
Yasmin slid into a seat, biting her lip. ‘I guess that’s why it kind of shook me when I felt someone grab at me.’
‘That would scare me too,’ Mal said.
Wendy hesitated, imagining what that must be like. She always tried so hard to dress so she wouldn’t be noticed.
‘Do you ever think about…not wearing it?’ Wendy asked. ‘I mean, if it doesn’t feel safe?’
‘Wearing hijab isn’t what makes me feel unsafe,’ Yamin said firmly. ‘Bullies make me feel unsafe.’”
Halfway through TETHERED TO OTHER STARS, one of those seventh grade “rowdy boys” does something utterly despicable. Something that caused me to clench my hands into tight fists and breathe hard. It’s happened numerous times since I began reading the book. That’s how real the reprehensible, racist behavior in this powerful tale for middle graders and middle schoolers feels.
Last year, in sixth grade, Wendy Toledo tested her way into the heralded Leopold Preparatory Academy in Ohio. It was a good distance away and was going to mean daily marathon bus rides to and from middle school. But, by the time seventh grade rolls around, her parents have moved Wendy and her brother Tom far away from their old town, where ICE raids had recently led to friends, both young and old, disappearing without a trace. Now Wendy lives in the supposedly all-American town in which the school for gifted and talented students is located.
But once school begins, there are bullies at the Academy whose racist parents are scornful of non-whites attending the school. They believe (without a shred of evidence) that such students must have gotten a free pass into the school, and must be diminishing the quality of the institution.
Terrified by the behavior they are soon enduring at the hands of the bullies, several targeted female minority students band together to watch each other’s backs. K.K. is Black. Etta is gay. Yasmin is Muslim. And Wendy, who is obsessed with astronomy, is a dark skinned young woman of Hispanic descent.
Brett, a cruel young thug, who lies like a rug, and masquerades as a charming, blue-eyed leader type, is the son of an ICE agent. He’s the wrong kind of leader. And as I type this, I can’t help but want to do something to that scary, racist pig-of-a-father of his.
“‘Laws aren’t always right,’ Wendy repeated. Laws like slavery, she thought. Or laws about where you belonged just because of where you were born.”
The story teaches us that people are not illegal. Behaviors can be illegal, but people are not “illegals.”
A stellar (pun intended), unforgettable, coming-of-age story, filled with some jaw-dropping, thought-provoking twists, TETHERED TO OTHER STARS is one I’ve already been talking up to everyone.
It’s certainly not possible to permit an endless number of people to move to the US or anywhere else. But the Golden Rule teaches me that there are far more humane ways to help those fleeing any number of deadly situations around the globe than the harsh, heavy-handed tactics that are frequently depicted here.
As the grandson of hard-working immigrant peasants, TETHERED TO OTHER STARS got me right there. I hope it will motivate young people to contemplate these complex geopolitical issues and, hopefully, some will be inspired to raise their voices and participate in finding a better, more humane way.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
richiepartington@gmail.com
“How can people be so heartless?
How can people be so cruel?
Easy to be hard
Easy to be cold”
– Galt MacDermot, James Rado, and Gerome Ragni (1967)
“‘Hijabi?’ Mal asked.
‘Someone who wears hijab,’ Yasmin explained. ‘And, yeah, there may be bullies, but I knew that before I decided to wear this.’ She tucked the ends of the pink scarf over her shoulders and looked across the rink toward the rowdy boys. ‘Can we sit back down for a minute?’
‘Have you ever had anyone mess with your hijab?’ K.K. asked as they skated back to their booth.
‘No. I’ve heard about that happening before, though.’
Yasmin slid into a seat, biting her lip. ‘I guess that’s why it kind of shook me when I felt someone grab at me.’
‘That would scare me too,’ Mal said.
Wendy hesitated, imagining what that must be like. She always tried so hard to dress so she wouldn’t be noticed.
‘Do you ever think about…not wearing it?’ Wendy asked. ‘I mean, if it doesn’t feel safe?’
‘Wearing hijab isn’t what makes me feel unsafe,’ Yamin said firmly. ‘Bullies make me feel unsafe.’”
Halfway through TETHERED TO OTHER STARS, one of those seventh grade “rowdy boys” does something utterly despicable. Something that caused me to clench my hands into tight fists and breathe hard. It’s happened numerous times since I began reading the book. That’s how real the reprehensible, racist behavior in this powerful tale for middle graders and middle schoolers feels.
Last year, in sixth grade, Wendy Toledo tested her way into the heralded Leopold Preparatory Academy in Ohio. It was a good distance away and was going to mean daily marathon bus rides to and from middle school. But, by the time seventh grade rolls around, her parents have moved Wendy and her brother Tom far away from their old town, where ICE raids had recently led to friends, both young and old, disappearing without a trace. Now Wendy lives in the supposedly all-American town in which the school for gifted and talented students is located.
But once school begins, there are bullies at the Academy whose racist parents are scornful of non-whites attending the school. They believe (without a shred of evidence) that such students must have gotten a free pass into the school, and must be diminishing the quality of the institution.
Terrified by the behavior they are soon enduring at the hands of the bullies, several targeted female minority students band together to watch each other’s backs. K.K. is Black. Etta is gay. Yasmin is Muslim. And Wendy, who is obsessed with astronomy, is a dark skinned young woman of Hispanic descent.
Brett, a cruel young thug, who lies like a rug, and masquerades as a charming, blue-eyed leader type, is the son of an ICE agent. He’s the wrong kind of leader. And as I type this, I can’t help but want to do something to that scary, racist pig-of-a-father of his.
“‘Laws aren’t always right,’ Wendy repeated. Laws like slavery, she thought. Or laws about where you belonged just because of where you were born.”
The story teaches us that people are not illegal. Behaviors can be illegal, but people are not “illegals.”
A stellar (pun intended), unforgettable, coming-of-age story, filled with some jaw-dropping, thought-provoking twists, TETHERED TO OTHER STARS is one I’ve already been talking up to everyone.
It’s certainly not possible to permit an endless number of people to move to the US or anywhere else. But the Golden Rule teaches me that there are far more humane ways to help those fleeing any number of deadly situations around the globe than the harsh, heavy-handed tactics that are frequently depicted here.
As the grandson of hard-working immigrant peasants, TETHERED TO OTHER STARS got me right there. I hope it will motivate young people to contemplate these complex geopolitical issues and, hopefully, some will be inspired to raise their voices and participate in finding a better, more humane way.
Richie Partington, MLIS
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May 21, 2023
There are so many things I love about this middle-grade book! My favorite aspect is the close love shared by Wendy's family. Mama, Papa, older brother Tom and Wendy are all so beautifully connected, even though they each keep secrets from the other family members. The family has recently moved to a new town, and Wendy and Tom know they are supposed to live quietly without drawing any attention to their family. They aren't sure why, but they suspect it involves ICE officers and families disappearing in their previous town. It is hard for the children to obey the family rules when there is a contest at the library Wendy is intensely interested in. The prizes are all astronomy-related, and astronomy is Wendy's great love. She even claimed she was named after Wendy Freedman, the astronomer, which was in no way true. There is also a science fair at school that will have a judge from the Ohio State University Astronomy Department, and they might be scouting for candidates for a junior internship program at the planetarium!
The book contains bullying, protests, immigration issues, and discrimination within the context of an American-Latino family. Ms. Leahy's tone when dealing with middle-school characters and their circumstances feels authentic. So, too, do her adult characters and their concern for their children. My only caveat for the novel is the ICE officer. He is nasty and looking for opportunities to harass Latinos. This felt too easy to me. I understand that immigration is a central topic in the story, but his character felt slightly over the top. As the book continued, though, the ICE officer's character came together more, and I didn't feel it was a big issue.
Another thing I loved about the novel is the caring shown by the community. The book had many bad things, but so much love shone throughout that one had to feel hopeful for the characters.
This is a wonderful read for middle-school students and anyone older. There are many great lessons to be learned from Ms. Leahy's writing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Books, Quill Tree Books for the ARC of this enjoyable and educational book.
The book contains bullying, protests, immigration issues, and discrimination within the context of an American-Latino family. Ms. Leahy's tone when dealing with middle-school characters and their circumstances feels authentic. So, too, do her adult characters and their concern for their children. My only caveat for the novel is the ICE officer. He is nasty and looking for opportunities to harass Latinos. This felt too easy to me. I understand that immigration is a central topic in the story, but his character felt slightly over the top. As the book continued, though, the ICE officer's character came together more, and I didn't feel it was a big issue.
Another thing I loved about the novel is the caring shown by the community. The book had many bad things, but so much love shone throughout that one had to feel hopeful for the characters.
This is a wonderful read for middle-school students and anyone older. There are many great lessons to be learned from Ms. Leahy's writing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Books, Quill Tree Books for the ARC of this enjoyable and educational book.
June 27, 2024
Based on the cover (which features yet another brown-skinned MC facing away - shame on you, publisher), this is not your average new kid story. Daughter of parents from El Salvador and Guatemala, Wendy and her brother, Tom, are named after English/American literary characters, rather than having Central American names. This is just one of the ways Wendy's parents try to fit in after leaving a mostly Latinx town in Ohio for a mostly White community where Wendy has been accepted into an elite school where she can further her passion for astronomy. Underhanded racist microaggressions and blatant attacks are targeting Wendy and all her BIPOC classmates. Meanwhile, a Mexican American woman is seeking refuge in a house across the street from Wendy's family's house which is bringing unwanted attention. Also meanwhile, Wendy is preparing a science project telescope with the gaslighting racist ringleader who she has a crush on, until he finally shows his true colors as the son of an ICE agent. There is a violent attack by drunken men, one wearing a "red hat." There are excellent examples of how common microaggressions hurt. There are also examples of well-meaning White kids being out of their lanes. Great stuff, all around. Some flaws, like plot-pacing, for example, prevent a five star rating, but overall this is a needed addition to all children's, tween, elementary and MS/JH libraries.
October 10, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Quill Tree Books for allowing me to read an eARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Wendy's family moved from South Carolina to Melborn, Ohio when she was just 6. It was a wonderful neighborhood with lots of activity, but a year ago everything changed. Now her Papa had moved them into a fixer-upper in Rooville, a neighborhood in Columbus. He was trying to get them away from the ICE raids, but there is a woman living in the church across the alley behind their house to avoid deportation.
Wendy is going to be attending Leopold Preparatory School for GT students. this public school had just opened admissions to neighboring school districts. She is most excited about the upcoming science fair and the possibility of a summer internship at the Ohio State University planetarium.
Wendy's parents believe they should keep their heads down and avoid bringing any attention to themselves.
Her brother Tom is acting strange and staying out late. Her new friends at school believe they should stand up against oppression, bullying and inequality. (Her and her friends are being bullied at school)
Wendy isn't sure what she should do.
This is a moving story of family secrets, activism, and finding where you fit in.
I am sure my students will enjoy it.
Wendy's family moved from South Carolina to Melborn, Ohio when she was just 6. It was a wonderful neighborhood with lots of activity, but a year ago everything changed. Now her Papa had moved them into a fixer-upper in Rooville, a neighborhood in Columbus. He was trying to get them away from the ICE raids, but there is a woman living in the church across the alley behind their house to avoid deportation.
Wendy is going to be attending Leopold Preparatory School for GT students. this public school had just opened admissions to neighboring school districts. She is most excited about the upcoming science fair and the possibility of a summer internship at the Ohio State University planetarium.
Wendy's parents believe they should keep their heads down and avoid bringing any attention to themselves.
Her brother Tom is acting strange and staying out late. Her new friends at school believe they should stand up against oppression, bullying and inequality. (Her and her friends are being bullied at school)
Wendy isn't sure what she should do.
This is a moving story of family secrets, activism, and finding where you fit in.
I am sure my students will enjoy it.
September 3, 2023
This is the best book I've read yet this year, for any age, in any genre. I finished it in one sitting and bet many middle grade readers will do the same. It is riveting. This is the story of Wendy Celestina Toledo, a middle school student with a love for astronomy who moves to a new town with her family under circumstances she's just beginning to understand. It crafts an entirely fresh take on classic issues like middle school bullying and academics in the context of a riveting tale of immigration, discrimination, and what it means to be an American in the 21st century. Elisa Stone Leahy's writing is extraordinary. I felt the terror and dread right along with Wendy as she discovers who her friends really are and what fears her family must face. And I felt hope in the end, not that everything would be perfect, but that Wendy's family and friends wouldn't give up the fight for a better future. There were parts that had me literally in tears. I don't want to say more and risk any spoilers, but I will add that this is a book for all middle grader readers, whether they think their live are impacted by immigration or not. Content notes for violence, injury, hate speech, and law enforcement interactions. Thank you so much to the publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read early.
October 24, 2023
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
If you are a child of immigrants or a person who was brought to a different country at a young age, please be aware that this book will open up memories and feelings that you might have stashed away in the furthest corners of your mind.
That being said, I thought this book was good and definitely a book we need. It touches on important issues like immigration, racism, race based violence, and other social justice issues. It was explained very well for middle-grade children! Wendy, the main character, grapples with her own identity as she tries to navigate a new school in a new neighborhood. She encounters other members of different marginalized groups and her world view is deeply shaken at learning about how each group is targeted by the same people. She starts taking a second look at her lived experiences and the toll the political climate has had on not only her family, but her new friends as well. The book highlights how racism and even internalized racism, is a behavior that is built and nourished around our environment (home, school, society). This might be hard for some to read as it will make them look deep inside themselves and wonder if they have been perpetrators at one point or another. While others will argue that this book will do more harm than good based on the content, I strongly believe that this will provide a good opening point to begin having these tough conversations at home. While this book is middle-grade fiction, people of all ages would benefit from reading this book. TW: racism (to include bullying, racial terms, and some violence)
If you are a child of immigrants or a person who was brought to a different country at a young age, please be aware that this book will open up memories and feelings that you might have stashed away in the furthest corners of your mind.
That being said, I thought this book was good and definitely a book we need. It touches on important issues like immigration, racism, race based violence, and other social justice issues. It was explained very well for middle-grade children! Wendy, the main character, grapples with her own identity as she tries to navigate a new school in a new neighborhood. She encounters other members of different marginalized groups and her world view is deeply shaken at learning about how each group is targeted by the same people. She starts taking a second look at her lived experiences and the toll the political climate has had on not only her family, but her new friends as well. The book highlights how racism and even internalized racism, is a behavior that is built and nourished around our environment (home, school, society). This might be hard for some to read as it will make them look deep inside themselves and wonder if they have been perpetrators at one point or another. While others will argue that this book will do more harm than good based on the content, I strongly believe that this will provide a good opening point to begin having these tough conversations at home. While this book is middle-grade fiction, people of all ages would benefit from reading this book. TW: racism (to include bullying, racial terms, and some violence)
September 16, 2023
This book is an excellent read. To be honest, I picked it up from NetGalley because it was available instantly to be listened to as an audiobook. And as I listened, I realized what a phenomenal story it is.
Enter an American family, one member of which has a green card, dealing with racism and bigotry in our current national environment—even though the main character is a brilliant science whiz student attending a high-powered school.
It isn’t just a Latinx story, but also focuses on a whole host of non-white high-achieving characters set in a town that is a microcosm of America… On one side, there are people who are trying very hard to fight for social and racial justice and equality, and on the other side there are people literally chanting “deport them all” and “build the wall.”
Remember, we are talking about American citizen characters here. They’re just not all white.
This will be an instant read aloud to my class, because of the lessons that are in it, and what happens to the main character— how she learns to deal with what is happening to her and to her friends around her. Who can she trust? Is everybody who they seem to be?
1000% highly recommended, thumbs up, well done, beautifully written, can’t say enough good stuff about it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Quill Tree Books for the advanced readers copy of this book. Please note my review is independent and my opinions are my own.
Enter an American family, one member of which has a green card, dealing with racism and bigotry in our current national environment—even though the main character is a brilliant science whiz student attending a high-powered school.
It isn’t just a Latinx story, but also focuses on a whole host of non-white high-achieving characters set in a town that is a microcosm of America… On one side, there are people who are trying very hard to fight for social and racial justice and equality, and on the other side there are people literally chanting “deport them all” and “build the wall.”
Remember, we are talking about American citizen characters here. They’re just not all white.
This will be an instant read aloud to my class, because of the lessons that are in it, and what happens to the main character— how she learns to deal with what is happening to her and to her friends around her. Who can she trust? Is everybody who they seem to be?
1000% highly recommended, thumbs up, well done, beautifully written, can’t say enough good stuff about it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Quill Tree Books for the advanced readers copy of this book. Please note my review is independent and my opinions are my own.
December 27, 2023
This was such a great story about a young girl's call to activism when her family and community are faced with discrimination and injustices. Wendy and her family just want to blend in as they move into a new neighborhood and Wendy starts seventh grade at a new school. Though Wendy is a US citizen, and her parents are supposedly fully documented immigrants, they've had too many friends deported by ICE and they don't want any trouble. They certainly don't want to get involved with helping the undocumented woman, Luz, who is in sanctuary at the nearby church and is drawing the attention of the ICE officers. Things start out okay for Wendy. She is making new friends and enjoys her classes, but soon she and her friends are faced with microaggressions at school, which escalate into bullying, and her brother gets involved with the activists trying to help Luz. Wendy can't help but get pulled in too. Wendy must learn how to stand up for herself as well as advocate for others. This book has a great cast of characters and is a must-read for budding young activists and shows the importance to caring for others in your community.
January 9, 2024
Wendy Toledo has her eyes on the stars, but life on Earth is opening her eyes to the hardships all around her. When people she knows, one of them her best friend, disappear from her neighborhood, her parents move her and her brother to Columbus, Ohio. Wendy attends a school for gifted and talented students that touts its equity, but bullying and racism are ignored by the principal. Wendy focuses hard on her science fair project, trying to keep her head down despite Luz, an immigrant taking sanctuary in a church down the street from her fighting deportation and the bullying she witnesses, the realities, family secrets, and someone she loves getting hurt, Wendy finds the courage to stand up and be loud. The book starts with serious stakes with ICE snatching people, but Leahy balances the stakes throughout the book, allowing them to ebb and flow with family issues, school issues, and having to find strength inside one's self. The characters are well-rounded from diverse ethnicities, backgrounds, and beliefs that help keep the issues Wendy is facing more real. A hard, but approachable look at immigration and prejudice.
October 21, 2023
Imagine walking a fine line between feeling like a normal seventh grader and suddenly having to walk on egg shells at home. Wendy still feels a sense of loss and betrayal stemming from her closest friend disappearing following an ICE raid in the town where they used to live. The party line at home is that her parents, her brother, and Wendy are all legal US citizens. But if that's true, why is everyone suddenly paranoid? Does the young woman, Luz, who has sought sanctuary in the church by their home create new tension?. The longer Luz remains and protests supporting her go on, the tenser things become.
Add in that Wendy is in love with astronomy, but is paired with a white boy who turns out to be a bully and has a sinister connection with the man who seems to be terrorizing her parents, a hijacked science project, and a perfect storm of crises affecting her family, and you have a highly readable story of what it's like to decide that taking a stand is far more important than trying to remain invisible.
This deserves a spot on all library shelves.
Add in that Wendy is in love with astronomy, but is paired with a white boy who turns out to be a bully and has a sinister connection with the man who seems to be terrorizing her parents, a hijacked science project, and a perfect storm of crises affecting her family, and you have a highly readable story of what it's like to decide that taking a stand is far more important than trying to remain invisible.
This deserves a spot on all library shelves.
December 8, 2023
TETHERED TO OTHER STARS tells a powerful story about friendship, family, and fighting for what's right. Wendy is a sympathetic character who's relatable in her fear and her hesitation to get involved in situations that are tense and even dangerous. As she slowly learns to stand up and speak out, she becomes an admirable heroine who advocates for herself and others. Her circle of friends are similarly sympathetic and likable. The events in the novel make for a tense, suspenseful story that is engrossing and compelling. While the tale is ultimately a hopeful one, it's also heartbreaking in many ways. The book's moral is hammered home with all the subtlety of a cartoon anvil, but it's such an important message that it's okay to hit the readers hard. All of us need encouragement to be kinder, more inclusive, and more empathetic. TETHERED TO OTHER STARS is a moving, thought-provoking, empowering novel that reminds all of us to work harder on those goals to make our world a safer, more accepting place for everyone. It's a should-not-be-missed read.
February 8, 2024
This is a very important book for all ages. All of the aspects of the story are woven together beautifully and are told through nuanced characters who change and grow over the course of the book. It feels real in a way that is hard to capture, because although there is hope, there are also many hard things people have to go through that are not merely ignored in favor of a perfect ending. Healing is necessary for these characters and our world, and it is impossible to read this book without feeling empowered to stand up for your beliefs and the experiences of others by the end. There is a heavy focus on friendship and community, which is so important in so many circumstances in the book. Wendy is a smart and determined main character, but she’s also very flawed, and right from the beginning I was excited to see her character development as she became more sure of herself and standing up for others. There is such a spectrum showed that will push readers to figure out where they fall and how they can do better.
March 6, 2024
This is a beautifully written book with characters who are so well developed, so believable, so vulnerable, so relatable, so unique, so middle school you feel you know them and are part of them by the end of the book. The story is centered on the main character, Wendy Toledo, whose family is worried about the recent backlash against Mexican and South American imigrants after seeing friends and neighbors taken by ICE. Hoping to be safer and avoid attention, her father relocates them to central Ohio only to find that a woman, hoping to avoid deportation because of a problem with her green card, is living in the church next to their new house.
Wendy is a brilliant 7th grader who loves science, especially astronomy. She is in a school for gifted students where she is embraced by a diverse group of girls who do not fit in with the white "in crowd." Through the story, these girls bolster each other and fight for justice within their school and community.
I don't want to give away too much, because it is a wonderful read that unfolds perfectly. I highly recommend it.
Wendy is a brilliant 7th grader who loves science, especially astronomy. She is in a school for gifted students where she is embraced by a diverse group of girls who do not fit in with the white "in crowd." Through the story, these girls bolster each other and fight for justice within their school and community.
I don't want to give away too much, because it is a wonderful read that unfolds perfectly. I highly recommend it.
February 20, 2024
My personal rating is 4 1/2 stars, because I'm not the audience for this book. I'm not going into great detail about the plot since you can find that information elsewhere, but I will say two things about the writing. First, the prose is clean and the plotting good. Second, it is firmly--too firmly--based on fact. I remember a case like Tom's right near where I live. It was infuriating in its injustice. So--
This is an excellent, excellent middle grade that will speak clearly to young readers Wendy's age. They will recognize the bullying, the awkwardness, the difficulty in standing up for yourself and finding your own voice. And this story offers hope, too. Yes, in spite of the horrible situation I mentioned above.
I thought all the characterizations were excellent, and young readers may also find their way into both history and astronomy if they are as inspired by this book as I was. They may look up Kepler, Galileo, and Romero, and that's wonderful.
This is an excellent, excellent middle grade that will speak clearly to young readers Wendy's age. They will recognize the bullying, the awkwardness, the difficulty in standing up for yourself and finding your own voice. And this story offers hope, too. Yes, in spite of the horrible situation I mentioned above.
I thought all the characterizations were excellent, and young readers may also find their way into both history and astronomy if they are as inspired by this book as I was. They may look up Kepler, Galileo, and Romero, and that's wonderful.
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