Reviews

Santiago is orphaned, abused, and shuffled between family members who don't want him. He makes a rash decision to move away and meets Maria Dolores and her daughter Alegria. They are trying to get into the United States and are willing to take him. After a difficult journey across the border, they are suffering from severe heat strokes...Maria Dolores is taken to the hospital and Santiago and Alegria are taken to a detention center, where they are separated. Santiago spends 6 months in the detention center; he learns to read and write in Spanish (and learns some English as well), but he just wants to get out.

A great introduction to immigration (both legally and illegally) for middle grade readers. Santiago is incredibly resilient and kind, and you are rooting for him throughout the entire story.

papernapkindreams's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

kelseynicole11's review against another edition

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challenging emotional tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.75

libwinnie's review

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5.0

Oh my goodness, what a tough read. Besides being an extremely important book, it's well-written with heartbreaking characters and a well-developed story. Such an emotionally impactful book.