Esperanza Rising (Hispanic & Latino Children's literature)
By Pam Munoz Ryan
Esperanza Rising is a story about a young Mexican girl who grew up in a privileged family. When her life is turned upside down, she has to quickly adapt to a new way of life. Esperanza, hope in Spanish, must find hope in a life that seems hopeless. She leaves Mexico for the United States during the Great Depression only to be placed in a camp for Mexican farm workers. The quality of living is dreadful. Munoz portrays the inequities and second-rate treatment of immigrants during that time. Living this immigrant life, Esperanza has to learn how to tend to her own needs while tending to the needs of others. She struggles with being accepted by her peers and deals with accepting herself. Esperanza has to force herself out of what is comfortable in order to find meaning in the new world surrounding her. The story of Esperanza shows the grit and determination needed to withstand the ups and downs of life.
One of my all time favorite books for fifth graders! Thank you for reviewing it. Pam Munoz Ryan has many other novels for middle grade students.
ReplyDeleteI have listened to this audiobook, but would like to read the actual text. Many students have recommended it to me as the whole school read it in sixth grade. I have collected several copies and would like to be able to recommend it to students. Thank you for your review.
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