"Something I want people to get out of the book is an awareness of internalized racism. Merit as a truism was very damaging to me because I tested into Lowell High School and was one of the only Latino students; I had to unlearn exceptionalism and structural racism."
"I did this by learning Spanish through song in my family band, and connecting with my culture and others. The link between art and cultural pride in music is illustrated in Estela, Undrowning."
Estela, Undrowning follows Estela Morales, a high school senior facing challenges like college applications and a poetry contest that ignites discussions on merit and racism. The story reflects Peña-Govea's experiences growing up in San Francisco and emphasizes the importance of cultural identity. Estela's journey involves unlearning harmful messages and finding support from her family, friends, and romantic interests. The novel weaves poetry and prose to illustrate the connection between art, cultural pride, and personal growth.
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