Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Crystal's Comments: It’s our tendency as librarians to talk mostly about new books. But every book is new to the person who has never read it before. Sometimes an old book finds new possibility in a different decade. Esperanza Rising, originally published in 2000, is just such a book. Pam Muñoz Ryan’s story of a Mexican family’s immigration to California during the Great Depression may bring inspiration to kids whose families are struggling with the loss of jobs and homes during our recession.

Leaving behind a life of wealth and privilege, Esperanza learns humility, character, and self-reliance when tragic circumstances force her family to leave the only life they’ve ever known. The author’s grandmother was the source of this coming of age novel which covers a dark period of American history when poverty and prejudice were abundant. Given our country’s controversy over immigration today, this book is also a timely reminder of what has always drawn new people (including undocumented workers) to America—hope and promise. Esperanza Rising is an affirmation of family and love. When the two are united, we learn that we can prevail through any adversity (check status at GPL).