Esperanza Rising

After some dense and somewhat heavy books Esperanza Rising, a well-received children's book about migrant workers, was a much quicker and lighter read that also tackled some difficult issues. The title character (based on the author's grandmother) is a young girl displaced from Mexico to California during the Depression, and having to adjust to the loss of wealth and family. This is a thoughtful, beautifully observed book for young readers that will help them understand some of the difficulties faced by immigrants.

4.5 stars. Here's why I like middle-grade fiction so much right now – it has the power and ability to discuss complicated and heart-wrenching topics in an accessible yet direct fashion. You get to the heart of the matter without the neuroses of adulthood adding unnecessary complications.

Esperanza Rising is about a criolla in Mexico who had a privileged early childhood, only to face the hard truths of Mexican laborers and Mexicans in the U.S. There's a hard look at class and how we treat others we believe to be beneath us and there was a moment in the book that felt ruthless in addressing how we perceive the poor and the homeless, or at least ruthless to me.

the author's note was everything <3. I enjoyed this book so much, man. historical fiction will always be one of my favorite genres. I love how it's somehow both real and not at the same time. that will forever intrigue me. this story was honestly so inspiring and just overall enjoyable. Pam Muñoz Ryan will always be one of my favorite authors. her work is just too beautiful and I love her writing. it's definitely unique and special. this book was everything I had hoped it would be.