A WORLD OF ADVENTURE greets Elena and her little brother, Carlos, once they leave their Mexican seaside village to find their father, who has suddenly disappeared into the masses of immigrants attempting to make a living in Los Angeles in order to support families back home.

With very few leads and her ability to speak English, Elena luckily is hired by a wealthy Mexican-American family. Now able to support herself and Carlos, Elena begins the search for their father and encounters intrigue, crime and mystery related to his disappearance. But she also finds friendship and love, as well as the confidence to forge her own identity.

The Girl from Playa Blanca is a delightful adventure story and mystery novel for young people that also sheds light on the contemporary themes of immigration and biculturalism.