The three Reyes families make their annual trip south from Chicago via Route 66 to the home of the Awful Grandmother and the Little Grandfather on Destiny Street in Mexico City. From the back seat of her father's station-wagon, Lala witnesses the crossover from Texas to Mexico, the change from truck stop donuts to street vendors with hot tortillas and the sting of roasting chillies in the throat and eyes. Awaiting Lala is also the family's stories and secrets, the lies and the truths behind the legends she grew up with, and, most curiously, the mystery of the Awful Grandmother's special treasure - her caramelo silk shawl, the colour of burnt milk candy - which was never finished. Caramelo moves through three generations, taking in history and culture, tragedy and laughter. This unforgettable novel evokes the stories, legends and truths through which a family comes to understand itself.