My Family Divided by Diane Guerrero - ADVISABLE

My Family Divided by Diane Guerrero, 251 pages. NON-FICTION. Henry Holt (Macmillan), 2018. $19. Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: G.

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

Diane Guerrero is an American citizen. Her parents are not. Diane was born in America when her parents decided to overstay their 90-day visa. For 15 years her parents evaded law enforcement, but the ever-present fear was a heavy burden on Diane. Her parents tried to apply for permanent residency through attorneys who turned out to be scammers. When her parents were finally caught and deported, Diane had to remain strong so she could finish out high school in America.

This is a nonfiction narrative. It reads like a story. It tackles the moral dilemma foreign families face when the channels to a better life in America are closed to them. I wish the author had taken more time to go deep into some of the impactful moments of her childhood. It glosses over the years in a generalized way that’s not particularly interesting. However, the connection to current events and easy narrative style make this a recommended book for the nonfiction collection.

Valerie McEnroe, Media Specialist