The Luis Ortega Survival Club

Ariana Ruiz, an autistic girl who never talks, feels noticed by Luis, who starts to pay attention to her. They have sex at a party, and the rumour mill begins churning, making Ari a target for boys at school. Through a mysterious note and an unexpected Tumblr follower, Ari discovers that Luis is a predator and forms a group of unlikely students to expose him. Julie Murphy's novel "Sonora's Voice" is a revenge story with nuance, heart, and the possibility of healing. It explores timely issues such as accountability, explicit consent, and neurodiversity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2024
Publisher: Faber & Faber

When the weight of words becomes too burdensome to bear, the act of voicing them becomes seemingly impossible. This poignant tale, penned by the acclaimed author of "The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School," delves into the realm of revenge, told with a delicate balance of nuance, heart, and the potential for healing.

Ariana Ruiz yearns for recognition, but as an autistic girl who rarely speaks, she often goes unnoticed by her peers, despite her bold fashion choices. However, when the charming and popular Luis begins to show interest in her, Ariana finally feels seen. Luis's attention soon evolves into something more intimate, leading to a sexual encounter at a party, where Ari, while not explicitly saying no, did not give her consent. Before she has a chance to process the aftermath and determine if she has the right to be angry with Luis, the rumor mill begins to churn, and Ari becomes a target for the boys at school, who perceive her as someone who will not say no.

Through a mysterious note in her locker and an unexpected Tumblr follower, Ari discovers that she is one of many victims of Luis's predatory actions. A group of unlikely students, united by their desire to expose Luis for the predator he is, comes together. Ari, once lonely, finds herself forming a diverse group of genuine friends, including her growing feelings for the girl she never expected to fall for.

However, to bring Luis to justice, Ari must confront the truth of what he did to her that night and risk everything to ensure that justice is served. Sonora's writing is captivating, and Julie Murphy, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of "Dumplin," has praised her as a writer to watch. This novel explores timely issues such as accountability, explicit consent, and the experiences of neurodivergent teens. Kirkus Reviews has praised the book for its "biting prose" and insightful discussions of these important topics. Publishers Weekly has also lauded the book, describing it as a thrilling tale of vengeance.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571374403
Edition number: Main