This Is Not a Personal Statement

In this YA contemporary novel, Perla forges her own acceptance letter to Delmont University after getting rejected, but her guilty conscience and campus security grow. She questions if her dream is something she even wants.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

In this captivating YA contemporary novel, "Admission Meets American Panda," Perla Perez, a sixteen-year-old student at Monte Verde High, faces a devastating rejection from her dream college, Delmont University. Devastated and in a state of panic, she resorts to forging her own acceptance letter, hoping to salvage her meticulously planned future. With no regard for the consequences, Perla embarks on a daring adventure to Delmont, where she immerses herself in a world of deceit and deception. She breaks into dorm rooms, crashes classes, and evades questions about her lack of a student ID, all in an attempt to gather valuable information to strengthen her application and reapply for the spring semester. However, as her guilty conscience grows, Perla begins to question the validity of her dream and wonders if it is truly what she desires.

"Admission Meets American Panda" is a powerful tale of acceptance, self-discovery, and the boundless opportunities that arise when we embrace our imperfections. Written by rising star Tracy Badua, this novel delves deep into the complexities of teenage life and explores the themes of resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's true desires. With its engaging storyline, relatable characters, and thought-provoking messages, "Admission Meets American Panda" is a must-read for fans of YA literature and anyone who has ever felt the weight of expectations.

In the aftermath of her rejection, Perla finds herself grappling with a myriad of emotions. She is filled with anger, frustration, and a sense of betrayal towards herself for not living up to her expectations. But as she immerses herself in the unfamiliar world of Delmont, she begins to discover aspects of herself that she never knew existed. She meets new friends, explores different interests, and discovers a passion for art that she never knew she had. Through her experiences, Perla learns to embrace her imperfections and recognize the value of individuality.

One of the central themes of the novel is the idea of acceptance. Perla's journey to Delmont is not without its challenges, as she faces discrimination and prejudice from her peers and faculty. However, she refuses to let these obstacles define her or hinder her pursuit of happiness. Instead, she uses them as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. She learns to stand up for herself and advocate for what she believes in, even when it goes against the status quo.

Another important theme in the novel is the concept of self-discovery. Perla's journey to Delmont is not just about getting into a prestigious college but about finding herself and her place in the world. She learns to let go of the expectations that others have placed on her and to pursue her own dreams and passions. Through her experiences, she realizes that life is not a linear path and that there are infinite possibilities for her to explore and achieve.

The novel also explores the complexities of relationships and the power of authenticity. Perla's relationships with her parents, friends, and romantic interests are tested as she navigates her new life at Delmont. She learns to be honest with herself and others, even when it is difficult or painful. She realizes that true happiness comes from being true to oneself and from building genuine connections with others.

In conclusion, "Admission Meets American Panda" is a captivating YA contemporary novel that delves into the themes of acceptance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of one's true desires. Written by Tracy Badua, this novel offers a powerful and relatable portrayal of teenage life and the challenges that young people face. With its engaging storyline, relatable characters, and thought-provoking messages, "Admission Meets American Panda" is a must-read for fans of YA literature and anyone who has ever felt the weight of expectations.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 202 x 135 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063217768