After her father's death when she was nine years old, Renata emigrated from Brazil to North America with her mother and little brother. Now 14, Renata and her small family live in a cramped, urban apartment. Renata's mother works uncomplainingly to provide Renata and her brother with every opportunity possible in their new country. In her first year at an "excellent" high-school in a wealthy urban neighbourhood, Renata is faced with racism, stereotyping, and bullying.

Electronic reproduction.