La Linea

La Linea
by Ann Jaramillo
Published by: Roaring Book Press

Summary: Miguel's parents left Mexico promising to send for him in a few years so that he could join them in California. But it's been years and years now and Miguel is thinking it will never happen, until he wakes up on his fifteenth birthday and finds a note at the foot of his bed, instead of pile of gifts from his grandmother. It's finally time for him to cross The Line. The Line seperating Mexico from the United States, The Line seperating him from his parents. Miguel's little sister Elena is jealous and angry that she has not been called also. So she stows away, following Miguel and when he finds out, he worries he will get them both sent back to their little home town, never to get out. They are beaten, stolen from, starved and tired along the journey across The Line and at some points aren't sure if they're going to make it.

Personal Review: I have never really considered illegal immigration into the United States from the perspective of the immigrant. It was a beautiful and fresh view and I loved opening my mind to it. I really enjoyed the characters and how spanish phrases were scattered throughout the book. It was a story that touched my heart and made me feel something.

Cautionary Notes: Illegal Immigration