My Family Divided: One Girl's Journey of Home, Loss, and Hope Paperback – July 16, 2019

PROS: The necessity of this book. For those living with the constant fear of losing their parents to deportation, it's evidence that they do not walk this path alone.If you are not facing deportation, you should probably also read it. You never know as much as you think you do.It's easy to trot out popular slogans when the consequences do not seem to affect you directly; don't be one of those people who are unable or worse, unwilling, to recognise the humanity of others.There but for the grace of God go I. And (possibly) you.There is also a resource section in the back for kids who fear the deportation of parents and for parents facing deportation.WARNINGS: I'm sure that there are many triggers to the very tweens and teens this book is aimed at, and while it would offer them a lot, they should probably have a lot of support while reading this. Also, while the author has done an incredible job of getting herself to where she is, she went through a really rough patch of depression and cutting (self-harm) and thoughts of suicide which should not be negated. It's not a big part of the book, but parents and carers should know that it is there and that this is something that should be talked about.Personally, I thought the author did an incredible job with the cards dealt to her and was very honest and sensitive about that part of her life. But it's in there and should be acknowledged.This was a fast read, but one that showed, so clearly, the resilience of the human spirit, the industriousness of those at the bottom of the ladder and the invisible misery that the rest of society happily keeps invisible. What if this was your family? Your child?Because reading helps us all to become better humans, and this in one of those stories that gives us a path to take to get there.

What a powerful story! Diane Guerrero tells her story, a story hauntingly familiar for so many! I've recommended it to family and friends who still can't seem to grasp the crisis.

I know this actress from Orange is the New Black. Then when I started following her on Instagram I noticed she was such an amazing young woman. When the book was release last week I pre-ordered it and begun reading as soon as it arrived.The book is a great read in understanding a child’s perspective in deportation. The full understanding of the emotion that can overtake individuals. Take out the politics of whether undocumented individuals should be here or not. That’s opinions. No one looks into what that means to the person. The feelings that occur. And this is brilliantly written to where you, the reader can understand that. Whether your Democrat, republic, or simply don’t care. Read this. I think it’s great. And I think she did absolutely amazing in her life so far. I hope she writes more.

What a great book. I didn’t know about her story. I relate so much to it being a first generation born American who’s family went through a similar story. Excellent read for those who have felt as scared and lonely living in fear of your parents being taken from you—- and worst of all, if it actually happened.

Ms. Guerrero’s compelling personal account of her parents deportation reminds the reader of the life-saving power of friends and schools. The book opens a window on the necessarily secretive world of undocumented people. A personal nod to Linda Nathan, a founder of Boston Arts Academy, and to all those teachers everywhere who somehow keep hope alive for children in seemingly hopeless circumstances.

What a story (all true)! It reminded me that you never know what someone else is going though even when they have a smile on their face. I like that this book speaks directly to the young people that will be reading it. They will relate to the many ups and downs of growing up.

Great Book. Recommend for all kids. 10 yr old did her quarterly book report on it. Reading perfect for 5th grader and kept her interest. 250 pages, few pictures

I loved this book! I couldn't put it down. 37 years old. I have it in my classroom library for my middle schoolers.