Caravan to the North: Misael’s Long Walk
Written by Jorge Argueta
Illustrated by Manuel Monroy
Published by Groundwood Books
This novel in verse is a powerful first-person account of Misael Martinez, a Salvadoran boy whose family joins the caravan heading north to the United States. We learn all the different reasons why people feel the need to leave — the hope that lies behind their decision, but also the terrible sadness of leaving home. We learn about how far and hard the trip is, but also about the kindness of those along the way. Finally, once the caravan arrives in Tijuana, Misael and those around him are relieved. They think they have arrived at the goal of the trip — to enter the United States. But then tear gas, hateful demonstrations, force and fear descend on these vulnerable people. The border is closed. The book ends with Misael dreaming of El Salvador. This beautiful and timely story is written in simple but poetic verse by Jorge Argueta, the award-winning author of Somos como las nubes / We Are Like the Clouds. Award-winning Mexican illustrator Manuel Monroy illuminates Misael’s journey. An author’s note is included, along with a map showing the caravan’s route.

Primary ISBN: 9781773063294
Available As: Hardcover
Middle Grade, Age 09 or older
Community Represented: Salvadoran/Salvadoran American
Themes: Discrimination: Racial, Immigrant: Economic, Refugee Journey, Refugee: Economic Crisis, Refugee: Gang Violence, US/Mexican Border Crossing
Setting: United States, El Salvador
Character’s New Arrival/New American Status: Refugee, Immigrant
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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