We Are Not from Here
Written by Jenny Torres Sanchez
Published by Philomel Books
Pulga has his dreams. Chico has his grief. Pequena has her pride. And these three teens have one another. But none of them have illusions about the town they’ve grown up in and the dangers that surround them. Even with the love of family, threats lurk around every corner. And when those threats become all too real, the trio knows they have no choice but to run: from their country, from their families, from their beloved home. Crossing from Guatemala through Mexico, they follow the route of La Bestia, the perilous train system that might deliver them to a better life–if they are lucky enough to survive the journey. With nothing but the bags on their backs and desperation drumming through their hearts, Pulga, Chico, and Pequena know there is no turning back, despite the that awaits them. And the darkness that seems to follow wherever they go. In this striking portrait of lives torn apart, the plight of migrants at the U.S. southern border is brought to light through poignant, vivid storytelling. An epic journey of danger, resilience, heartache, and hope.

Primary ISBN: 9781984812261
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook, eBook
Young Adult, Age 14 or older
Community Represented: Guatemalan/Guatemalan American
Themes: Audiobook, Award Winner, Engagement Tool: Discussion, Migrant Smuggling, Recommended: "Cartography" Companion Reads, Recommended: Infinite Country Read Alike, Refugee Journey, Refugee: Gang Violence, Trauma & Healing: Death of Family or Friend, Unaccompanied Minors, US/Mexican Border Crossing
Setting: Guatemala, United States
Character’s New Arrival/New American Status: Refugee
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