Seeing Off the Johns

Concepcion “Chon” Gonzales—tall, lonely, and directionless—is in love with Araceli, girlfriend of one of the “Johns,” two local baseball stars bound for the University of Texas. When the Johns die in a car accident, the entire community goes into mourning, and Chon’s friendships with his best friend, Henry Monsevais, and Araceli (who is also Henry’s cousin) are cemented. Together, the three celebrate their final year of high school and the daunting prospects that follow—a college career, a welding apprenticeship, and a long-term stint as a convenience store clerk. As Chon and Araceli grow closer, despite the community’s disapproval, Chon must decide if he will stay in the only place he knows or confront his fears and leave Greenton, Tex., behind. Perez (Along These Highways) captures the claustrophobia of small-town life in piercing detail, complete with listless drinking and sex. Drifting between community members with Chon at its center, the story follows Chon and Araceli into their new lives, a space where promises of forever do not always last, creating a touching meditation on first love and the pains of growing up. Ages 14–up. (Nov.)