Gary Soto has played a pivotal role in children's and young adult literature, particularly for his groundbreaking work as a Mexican American author. His 1990 publication of Baseball in April and Other Stories marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time a children's book by a Mexican American writer was released by a mainstream publisher. That same year, Soto expanded his literary contributions with A Fire in My Hands, a poetry collection for young readers. Poetry had always been central to Soto's oeuvre, with much of his earlier writing being poetry for adults, making its inclusion in his children's literature debut quite fitting. Subsequent poetry collections, such as Neighborhood Odes in 1992 and Canto Familiar in 1995, further cemented his influence in this genre.

Soto's versatility as a writer is evident through his diverse range of works suitable for middle-school readers. His short fiction, such as Local News (1993), offers engaging narratives for younger audiences. Soto’s novels explore various themes: Taking Sides (1991) delves into the complexities of personal loyalties amidst basketball games; Pacific Crossing (1992) takes readers on a cultural journey through martial arts and a summer spent in Japan; The Pool Party (1993) examines the reconciliation of a young boy with his Mexican American identity in Southern California; Crazy Weekend (1994) provides laughter and suspense with its "cops and robbers" escapades; and Jesse (1994) offers a poignant exploration of the dreams and challenges faced by Mexican American youth. Soto has also penned collections of autobiographical essays, including Living up the Street (1985), Small Faces (1986), and A Summer Life (1990), providing profound insights into his own experiences and the broader Mexican American community.

His ability to engage with a wide audience is further demonstrated through works aimed at younger children. The Skirt (1992) tells the charming story of Miata, a girl who misplaces a special skirt needed for her folkloric dance performance. Soto’s picture books, such as Too Many Tamales (1993), which unfolds a humorous and heartwarming Christmas Eve tale involving a missing wedding ring, and Chato’s Kitchen (1995), where a cat named Chato ends up hosting mice for dinner rather than eating them, showcase his skill in crafting narratives that entertain while subtly imparting cultural themes.

Through his multifaceted approach to writing, Gary Soto has successfully reached a broad spectrum of readers, from young children to teens, while highlighting the richness of Mexican American experiences. His works continue to resonate with audiences, offering both entertainment and cultural reflection.