Former Wilcox High School  English teacher Misa Sugiura recently published her debut novel, “It’s Not Like It’s a Secret.” The novel is about an Asian-American teenager, Sana, who is exploring her sexuality.  She must overcome racial discrimination and family relationships, including dealing with her father’s infidelity, and sorting out the feelings she has for her best friend Jamie.

Initially resistant to moving to the Bay Area from her hometown in Wisconsin, Sana comes to embrace the diversity and the homey atmosphere she feels living in Santa Clara. She is astounded by the diversity of the Bay Area when she is finally able to relate to students of similar ethnicities as well as connect with those of other backgrounds.

At school, Sana becomes infatuated with Jamie, a Latin-American girl. The girls learn to develop a thicker skin against their doubters, some of whom are their closest friends and family members, in order to build a strong relationship.

Told from Sana’s perspective, this coming-of-age story is reminiscent of the Disney Pixar film “Inside Out,” albeit more mature. Using first-person narration, Sugiura pulls readers into Sana’s head where they understand her thoughts and emotions.

Because her life feels as if  it has been turned upside down (or inside out), Sana is similar to Riley. She feels crushed and must face her emotions, realizing it is ok to push outside of her comfort zone and be vulnerable. Sana’s traditional Asian family, however, differs from Riley’s, which does not face racism.

Some aspects of the novel leave readers hoping for a stronger theme of personal growth and independence. Sana makes decisions based on her fear of being alone, which is contradictory to the novel’s motifs of independence and resilience. Sana leads on Caleb, a good friend, while being in a relationship with Jamie. Sana thinks Jamie is getting back with her ex-girlfriend and therefore feels that justifies her actions.

This work of realistic fiction tackles controversial issues as well as daily teen drama. Young adults growing up in the Bay Area can especially identify with the identity crisis and peer pressure Sana faces. Sugiura’s debut novel, “It’s Not Like It’s a Secret,” is a touching view into teen life most will enjoy.