Esperanza Rising - Pam Munoz Ryan, author
Summary (from Goodreads):
Esperanza thought she'd always live with her family on their ranch in Mexico--she'd always have fancy dresses, a beautiful home, and servants. But a sudden tragedy forces Esperanza and Mama to flee to California during the Great Depression, and to settle in a camp for Mexican farm workers. Esperanza isn't ready for the hard labor, financial struggles, or lack of acceptance she now faces. When their new life is threatened, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances--Mama's life, and her own, depend on it.
My Review:
This story was beautifully crafted, and the character development was excellent. Esperanza begins as a rich, coddled plantation owner's daughter, but grows into a strong, inspirational young woman. The contrasts of settings (Esperanza's plantation and then a Mexican migrant camp in southern California) is well-realized, and the story is an informative peek into the resilient and spirited lives of the brave men and women who migrated to the US for work during the 1930s.
Read: March 2022