The Other Side of the River

Petra Luna has escaped a divided Mexico, where the corrupted Federals who fractured her family are now at war against the Rebels. Now Petra’s goal is to keep her family safe. She’s doing everything she can to keep her family safe and together. But, there are some things she can’t control, and America, the place dubbed the “Land of Opportunity,” isn’t as gilded and golden as she thought. Although this new place is unfamiliar, she is doing her best to adapt; for her family and herself. I enjoyed this book. I especially enjoyed how the author condensed important subjects into this book without glossing over them. A present theme of immigration in this book, I liked how she represented it in her writing, she made it understandable for younger readers without glossing over some of its complexities. This is historical fiction. Although, the Mexican revolution may seem like it took place long ago and therefore irrelevant. That’s something that was brought to my attention while reading this. Like many other historical events, this one is still very much prevalent to us. I think readers aged nine through twelve would like this book. Especially, if you like history/historical fiction or if you enjoy ambitious and practical main leads.