Sonia Nazario. Enrique's Journey.
Nazario's account of Enrique, a teen Honduran, who travels to the United States in search of his mother is a gripping story of determination and love. Of necessity, the protagonist is left with his relatives in Honduras at a very early age while his mother seeks employment in the United States. Lourdes intends to send money home to him and then return in a year. So much for intentions. The young Enrique becomes a sixteen year-old, who cannot wait any longer for his mother to return. Thus, he and a friend begin their trip to el Norte. After seven attempts, Enrique finally steps foot across the Rio Grande. This narrative is not simply a tale of the clash of cultures; rather, Enrique's Journey depicts culture as "clash." Nazario, a reporter for the Los Angeles Times, won two Pulitzer Prizes for her impeccable work. This book is an eye-opener. The subject matter may be too harsh for middle-school students, even though the protagonist is a teen. A definite read for high school and college students. By Natosi, high school/college English instructor.