R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed on 7/28/2016 + 1438 more book reviews

This is a most enlightening read. I knew much of the information about borders, crossings and some of the cruelty that occurs. I did not realize that many of the immigrants were so young or were mothers who were seeking a way to support their children at home. The story is fascinating that I understand why the author chose to expand the series she wrote for her newspaper into a book. Hopefully, many across the nation will read the book.

It began with separation. When her husband left, Lourdes, makes the difficult choice of traveling to the U.S. to find work to feed and educate her children left at home with others. Her son, Enrique, missed his mother so much that eleven years later he attempted time after time to reach her in the U.S. Turned back again and again his resolve only strengthened to reach her.

Riding freight trains was so dangerous that the author sought protective support for herself as she researched this tale. I understand that had she not done so the story may not have been told and her dedication to spend years collecting information and interviewing others add great depth to the tale. I had difficulty putting the book aside. Yet the reunion between mother and son is anything but loving. Each has become a different person. The son feels his mother abandoned him. The mother feels he doesn't understand or appreciate the sacrifices she made. This is a read that I cannot help but recommend to others. It's tragic, full of courage and determination and realistic. I am so glad I read this story.

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