73 pages • 2 hours read
Celia C. PerezThe First Rule of Punk
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Celia C. Pérez's The First Rule of Punk, 12-year-old Malú moves from Florida to Chicago with her mother for a new teaching job, struggling to balance her punk identity with her Mexican heritage. At her new school, she forms a band called the Co-Co’s, encountering challenges that include a dress-code violation and exclusion from a school event, leading to the creation of an alternative anti-talent show. Sensitive language is used in the novel.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Perez is an engaging and culturally rich novel that captures the essence of a young punk rocker navigating middle school challenges. Reviews commend its authentic voice, relatable protagonist, and incorporation of Mexican-American heritage. Some critique revolves around predictable plot elements, but overall, it's a heartwarming and vibrant read.
Who Should Read The First Rule of Punk ?
The ideal reader of Celia C. Perez's The First Rule of Punk is a middle-grade student interested in themes of identity, self-expression, and cultural heritage. Fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder and Kelly Yang's Front Desk will appreciate this engaging, emotionally resonant story woven with punk rock attitude and DIY spirit.
RecommendedReading Age
9-12yearsLexile Level
670L