Scan barcode
bookishaddictions's review
5.0
Grande tells the story of her efforts to secure her dream- to have a real home, a family that loves her as much as she loves them, and to make it as a writer- in her latest memoir. She describes the difficulties she faced within her personal life, as well as the struggles she faced within the world of academics. Grande reminds Latinx writers, especially Latina writers, that there IS a space for them in the world. She emphasizes her first experiences getting to learn about Latina writers in her university courses, and how much is meant for her to finally find something that reflected her own life. With tales of poverty, healing, and determination, Grande’s story is one that most can empathize with
ididntknowyoucouldread's review
4.0
A sweet book, its inspiring and can be heavy handed with its messaging and themes. But this is a memoir, so i guess like a person it isnt flawless and should be appreciated for its vulnerability and presentation of its past. Would definitely recommend, especially if you wish to gain perspective on lives different than yours.
lizards925's review against another edition
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
katebelt's review
4.0
Grande does what she sets out to do and shares the hardships and struggles she overcame along the way. The writing is clear and straightforward. Though I didn’t agree with or perhaps understand some of her choices and decisions, I empathized with her and cheered for her success. One of the most powerful reflections she shares is that of her teacher/mentor who encouraged her to celebrate the hardships she had gone through for their role in making her a writer with a unique voice. At nine, she convinced her parents to let her immigrate from Mexico and join them in California. She learns English, becomes the first in her family to earn a college degree, makes a home and family of her own, and becomes a published author. She has a big, forgiving heart, and eventually is driven to restore relationships with parents who abandoned and abused her. Along the way she learns that her parents were part of a cycle of abuse themselves, determining not to continue it with her own children. Grande wanted to tell her story in order to encourage others in similar circumstances. Each immigrant’s story is uniquely theirs, though if you’ve read a number of those recently published, this may be just one more for you. So I wondered if I should recommend the book for all readers. Perhaps I should. We people of white privilege can benefit from all the enlightenment we can get!
kellymy's review against another edition
4.0
“Little Sparrows need their mothers, at least until they learn to fly.”
lauraramsborg's review against another edition
4.0
Inspiring story of the author’s journey coming to America as a young girl from Mexico, making her way to college and becoming a published writer.
qqjj's review against another edition
3.0
I received this ARC in a Goodreads Giveaway! Thanks!
This was a very quick and flowing read that I liked, but I don't think it will stick with me. It took me awhile to get to, because I found out it was a second part and I wanted to read the first one. I don't think this is entirely necessary, there was enough explanation that you can get a general idea of what happened during Reyna's childhood and adolescence. However, if you are a completionist or you find yourself more curious about the younger years, The Distance Between Us is also a quick and interesting read.
The photos throughout were a nice touch to help place all the people Reyna writes about, and to remind you that this actually is non-fiction. Because it is so accessibly written, I think teens/young adults might really enjoy it. The main drawback for me, was that the story seemed overly detailed. It was as if nothing could be left out. Overall, I would still give it a try, if the premise sounds compelling to you. Immigrant stories are really important to share, so I'm glad Reyna's stories can add a perspective.
This was a very quick and flowing read that I liked, but I don't think it will stick with me. It took me awhile to get to, because I found out it was a second part and I wanted to read the first one. I don't think this is entirely necessary, there was enough explanation that you can get a general idea of what happened during Reyna's childhood and adolescence. However, if you are a completionist or you find yourself more curious about the younger years, The Distance Between Us is also a quick and interesting read.
The photos throughout were a nice touch to help place all the people Reyna writes about, and to remind you that this actually is non-fiction. Because it is so accessibly written, I think teens/young adults might really enjoy it. The main drawback for me, was that the story seemed overly detailed. It was as if nothing could be left out. Overall, I would still give it a try, if the premise sounds compelling to you. Immigrant stories are really important to share, so I'm glad Reyna's stories can add a perspective.
More...