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Aware of all the sacrifices her Cuban parents make to send her to an exclusive Catholic school in Orange County, Rubi Ramos works hard to try to get into Alma, an elite university that represents the American dream to her family. Though they own two successful bakeries, Rubi’s parents, especially her mother, are single-mindedly determined that their daughter become a lawyer someday. But while Rubi kicks butt as captain of her high school’s debate team, her heart truly lies in concocting new pastries and connecting with her Cuban heritage through her family’s special recipes. When Rubi is wait-listed by Alma but accepted into a prestigious baking contest, she struggles with making herself a competitive candidate on both fronts—while keeping it all a secret for fear of disappointing her parents. Rubi, whose father is Afro-Cuban, confronts racism and classism, particularly from a White peer who is jealous of her success. Readers will cheer for Rubi as she stands up for herself and reconciles her parents’ priorities with her dreams. Mouthwatering descriptions of food and Rubi’s blossoming romance with her supportive math tutor further sweeten this thoughtful, joyful coming-of-age story.

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