Sonia Rodriguez was born in the United States, but her parents are
Mexican immigrants who came to California before she was born. Her
father has three Social Security numbers, her mother is pregnant
(again), and neither of them speaks English. Sonia's mother spends most
of her time in bed, watching soap operas, and letting Sonia clean up
after her brothers. Sonia's father works dutifully to support his
family, but he knows that his daughter's dreams are bigger than making
tamales for family get-togethers. When Sonia attempts to put school work
before her familia, her mother decides that it's time for Sonia to visit
her grandmother in Mexico to learn the ways of the old world. While in
Mexico, Sonia gets to know her wise grandmother and her cousin Maria,
who teach her that while familia is important, the most important thing
is to follow your heart. Sonia returns to the States determined to
succeed in school, but the birth of her new twin siblings, inappropriate
advances from her drunk uncle (Drunkle), and a forbidden relationship
with an El Salvadorian boy push school to the back burner. If only Sonia
can find the time to cook dinner, secretly meet with her boyfriend,
avoid her Drunkle, AND finish her homework, she just might be able to
graduate from high school. . . .