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A review by ladygetslit
The Distance Between Us: Young Readers Edition by Reyna Grande
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
fast-paced
4.5
Told in short chapters that often read like vignettes, Reyna Grande shares the story of her childhood in Mexico and her journey to the United States.
I loved the raw portrayal of Reyna’s poverty in Mexico, and how hard her family fought to escape that. The stories from her childhood really shed light on why so many sacrifice everything to come to America for a better life. I also really admired the vulnerability in her description of her complicated family relationships. I found myself very angry with Reyna’s mother, who continually abandons her children in pursuit of her own desires, and Reyna’s father, who justifies his violence toward his children by reminding them what he’s given them.
This is a powerful story, especially for young people. Reyna’s continued dedication to her education makes her a good role model for young people. I could definitely see myself using this book in my classroom.
I loved the raw portrayal of Reyna’s poverty in Mexico, and how hard her family fought to escape that. The stories from her childhood really shed light on why so many sacrifice everything to come to America for a better life. I also really admired the vulnerability in her description of her complicated family relationships. I found myself very angry with Reyna’s mother, who continually abandons her children in pursuit of her own desires, and Reyna’s father, who justifies his violence toward his children by reminding them what he’s given them.
This is a powerful story, especially for young people. Reyna’s continued dedication to her education makes her a good role model for young people. I could definitely see myself using this book in my classroom.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, and Abandonment