With the Fire on High

From the New York Times bestselling author of the National Book Award–winning title The Poet X comes a dazzling novel in prose about a girl with talent, pride, and a drive to feed the soul that keeps her fire burning bright. Winner of the California Young Reader Medal!

Ever since she got pregnant freshman year, Emoni Santiago’s life has been about making the tough decisions—doing what has to be done for her daughter and her abuela.

The one place she can let all that go is in the kitchen, where she adds a little something magical to everything she cooks, turning her food into straight-up goodness.

Even though she dreams of working as a chef after she graduates, Emoni knows that it’s not worth her time to pursue the impossible. Yet despite the rules she thinks she has to play by, once Emoni starts cooking, her only choice is to let her talent break free.

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But can she follow her own dreams while raising a family and finishing high school?

Teen Mom Story: Emoni has one rule: her daughter comes first. But her passion for cooking is a fire that can’t be put out. Afro-Boricua Heroine: Grounded by her abuela and Philly roots, Emoni pours her heritage and a bit of magic into every dish she creates. Foodie Fiction: For Emoni, the kitchen is the one place she can be herself, turning everyday ingredients into moments of pure joy and connection. Finding Your Voice: With a baby on her hip and a future that feels impossible, Emoni must learn to trust her talent and fight for the life she dreams of.