Publisher's Synopsis
"Mateo's Big Adventure" follows 12-year-old Mateo, a young boy from Argentina, as he embarks on an unforgettable year in the United States as a foreign exchange student. Filled with excitement but overshadowed by anxiety, Mateo is eager to experience American life, yet unsure how he will fit in. As he steps into a new world-one filled with different foods, customs, and even weather-Mateo faces a series of challenges that push him far outside his comfort zone.
From his awkward first day at school, where he mispronounces names, struggles with his locker, and finds himself caught in a whirlwind of fast-talking classmates, to dealing with the strict rules about phone use in class, Mateo's journey is filled with both cringe-worthy moments and small triumphs. With new classmates like Jaxon, Emily, and Bryce, Mateo isn't sure who to trust. He quickly learns that making friends in a new country is tricky, but his love for soccer helps bridge the gap, uniting him with others through a shared passion.
As the days pass, Mateo experiences the highs and lows of being away from home-feeling both a deep sense of homesickness and an emerging appreciation for his host family, who are doing their best to make him feel at home. With humor, confidence, and a bit of bravery, Mateo rises to the challenges of fitting in, learning the language, and ultimately discovering his place in a new culture.
From hilarious misunderstandings in the cafeteria to embarrassing pranks and a big presentation in front of the class, Mateo's journey is one of growth, laughter, and self-discovery. By the end of the year, Mateo realizes that he's not just the "foreign kid"-he's Mateo, a friend, a student, and someone who's found his place in the world. "A Suitcase Full of Nerves" is a heartwarming and humorous story about the challenges of fitting in, the power of friendship, and the adventure of discovering who you really are.
