This is a really good addition to this challenge because it shows not everyone in the class has the luxury of, well, being a kid. It sucks that Juan has to grow up so quickly, and the bitterness of the last sentence is painful for an 8th grader, but this is a really good insight into his character.

The “and pills” part stuck out to me. Drug addiction? Or sick family? I’m interested in learning more about Juan.

The pills were really cleverly slotted in there – seen as insignificant vby being listed alongside school supplies and rent… Clever stuff!

I’m not sure where the time scale of the challenge has gone – at what point the character’s should be, but this is a fab story nonetheless, working wonders for the mysterious Juan’s character… MH :)

This is really well written, one of the best yet for this challenge. I love that we’re little by little learning more about Juan’s character and home life.