The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez

Gr 5 Up–Alex Ramirez, a neurodivergent seventh-grader with a love of space and NASA, feels stuck. He has been in self-contained (SC) classes since third grade and is tired of the dull worksheets and assignments. But worst of all, he’s upset with how others react to him—especially when SC students are forced to deliver coffee to teachers around the school. He already sees how kids, especially his former friend Leonard and Leonard’s new friend Richard, laugh behind his back. When Alex talks to his parents and teachers about joining Ms. Rosef’s mainstream science class, even his Mami is skeptical. But Alex is determined to break through every low expectation placed upon him and reach for the extraordinary. This is a powerful story about advocacy and self-efficacy, and many listeners will relate to Alex’s struggle with middle school bullies. Listeners will also connect with the frustration Alex and his peers feel as they strive to be recognized for their authentic selves, rather than being reduced to stereotypes. Although adapting a verse novel to audio is complex, listeners will become fully immersed in Alex’s world, thanks to the outstanding performance of narrator Florez. Florez’s expert voice acting adds depth to the characters and provides clarity for those unfamiliar with the Spanish language.