He Forgot to Say Goodbye

He Forgot to Say Goodbye
Written by: Benjamin Alire Saenz

High School Grades (strong language)

This novel is the second young adult novel from author Benjamin Alire Saenz which follows the lives of several high school aged characters as they navigate through cultural and social issues in their El Paso, Texas neighborhoods. It would appear Ramiro Lopez from “Dizzyland”, a working class Mexican-American barrio, and Jake Upthegrove from the upper West Side of El Paso would have little in common. A tragic twist of events including the drug related death of a family member bring Ramiro and Jake together creating an unlikely friendship that flourishes in spite of the cultural differences that exist between both characters. What transpires is a well-written novel that shows how family, culture, and social class barriers can be broken down allowing adolescents to break free of some of the stereotypes that exist in society. The author of this book uses strong and conversational language high school students will identify with. Adolescent readers will be drawn to the “realness” and relevancy of this book.

Jennie's Review