Immigrant & New Generation Books

“Suffused with the region’s vibrant colors, Resau’s memorable novel deftly blends Latin America’s richness and mystery with the brutal realities its emigrants carry away… The prose captivates from the first chapter… Central themes of fear and emotional survival permeate the multilayered plot… A mystical overlay from the practices of Pablo’s Mixtec relatives adds even more luster to a vibrant, large-hearted story.”

—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“The author’s love for the culture and physical setting of rural Oaxaca and northern Guatemala is shown in beautiful, descriptive detail. Rich, poetic language, elements of the hero quest story pattern, and quotations from St. Exupéry’s The Little Prince are braided through this coming-of-age romance as Sophie grows from amorphous onlooker into a strong, risk-taking young woman. Secondary characters, especially the 60-year-old Dika and her “boyfriend,” Mr. Lorenzo, are well developed. Readers will sympathize with Pablo and agonize as he chooses whether to stay in Mexico or return to Sophie’s family in Arizona. The satisfying love stories and moving glimpse of the immigrant experience make this a captivating read.”

—School Library Journal, Starred Review

“Resau works her magic again in this compelling first-person narrative. Full of longing and trepidation, Sophie is limited at the beginning of the story. But as she travels and comes to understand people better; life-altering perspectives awaken a newfound courage.”

—Booklist, Starred Review