Review: Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan

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. 

I read this book a long time ago... actually I did the audiobook which I really suggest, but I think this book is too important to forget about.

LIKED:
Can we talk about how this book is so under rated. Esperanza Rising is about a girl (conveniently named Esperanza) who grew up... basically rich in Mexico. Can you think of a time when you've heard of rick people (specifically Mexicans) living in Mexico? I haven't. Not once.

The book is so fascinating because Esperanza has to go from a life of privilege (and we hardly ever seen minorities in a position of privilege except in The Fresh Prince of Bel Air) and she's has to live the life of a migrant work in California.

This is an interesting coming of age story like no other.

NOT SO MUCH:
It's been a while since I've read this book but I can't remember anything that I didn't like. Esperanza was hard to like. She was spoiled, entitled, bratty, and annoying. But she was suppose to be. So it's fine. :)

IN CONCLUSION:
I know this review is shorter than most, but read this book.

4 Stars