School Library Journal Review
Gr 6--9--This young adult adaptation of Markham's book by the same name tells the story of twin brothers Ernesto and Raúl Flores. When Ernesto ended up on the wrong side of the gang MS-13, he fled El Salvador for America; Raúl quickly joined his identical brother, fearing he would be mistaken for Ernesto. The brothers crossed the border, ultimately falling into the hands of immigration. They navigated the legal process of acquiring papers, learned English, and figured out ways to send money home to their parents in order to repay the mounting debt they incurred to make it to the United States. Markham tells the story honestly and vividly, and while at times the book reads like fiction, she inserts her expertise as well as facts and data on the issue. VERDICT Readers will get a very human glimpse into the lives of two immigrants while also learning more about the larger picture of immigration in the United States. A must for all young adult nonfiction shelves.--Katharine Gatcomb, Portsmouth Public Library, NH |