Off and Running
Grade 4-6?Miata Ramirez, heroine of The Skirt (1992), is running for student-body president on a platform of school beautification. Unfortunately, her opponent, the irrepressible Rudy Herrera (from The Pool Party [1993, both Delacorte]), is promising longer recesses and Ice-Cream Day every day. How can Miata and her shy running mate, Ana, hope to compete with the popular Rudy and his cut-up friend, Alex? Miata works hard on her campaign, trying to rouse enthusiasm for graffiti cleanup and planting projects. Rudy gets attention and goofs off?sometimes he even gets Miata into trouble. In spite of various mishaps, Miata and her goals triumph. The tie-breaking votes come from Rudy and Alex, who would rather go out for soccer and who think the girls would do a better job. This book offers an engaging look at student politics. But, more importantly, it is a realistic, warm portrayal of a Latino school in California?the kids, their families, and traditions. A humorous, light, good-natured story about everyday life in one community that will have great appeal for kids everywhere.?Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public LibraryCopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.