Carolyn Ortiz

Trinity Soup Carolyn Ortiz

A bright and talented young African-American girl, Danielle Webb lives in an upper-middle-class neighborhood along the central California coast and attends a private elementary school with her best friend, Francesco. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when her father's business fails, placing a financial and emotional strain on the entire family. After many months of slamming doors and angry whispers, her parents separate, and ten-year-old Danielle must leave her cozy, familiar world to attend a public junior high school, where she faces the challenge of fitting in and making new friends. For the first time in her life, she must confront issues related to race, social class, and the importance of religion in the African American community. In time, Danielle befriends Maya, a cheerful, religious girl. As their friendship grows, the girls learn from one another and ultimately develop a deeper appreciation of culture, family, and spirituality. Trinity Soup shows how Danielle's strength and determination help her to overcome the challenges in her life.