Scan barcode
sapphicaffair's review against another edition
2.0
Rating: 2.5 stars maybe?
I read this one for class, I don’t know how I feel about it? The topic is important to talk about in class and the diversity is an important topic, I’m just not sure this book did the best job at portraying all the struggles undocumented people face? It’s true that every experience is different and this could be realistic in some aspect, but those aren’t the vibes I got. It’s a nice read for someone looking into an introduction to the topic I think, but overall it fell a bit flat to me. The humor was an interesting approach, I found myself intrigued in some areas, yet overall it didn’t make me think the way I’d expect a class reading to do. The approach on the subject of immigration was odd and I’m not sure if the feminist themes were the most fleshed out as it struck me as a “if you squint you’ll see the feminism” read. Overall, I’m sure the discussion will make it seem better but on its own it was okay.
I read this one for class, I don’t know how I feel about it? The topic is important to talk about in class and the diversity is an important topic, I’m just not sure this book did the best job at portraying all the struggles undocumented people face? It’s true that every experience is different and this could be realistic in some aspect, but those aren’t the vibes I got. It’s a nice read for someone looking into an introduction to the topic I think, but overall it fell a bit flat to me. The humor was an interesting approach, I found myself intrigued in some areas, yet overall it didn’t make me think the way I’d expect a class reading to do. The approach on the subject of immigration was odd and I’m not sure if the feminist themes were the most fleshed out as it struck me as a “if you squint you’ll see the feminism” read. Overall, I’m sure the discussion will make it seem better but on its own it was okay.
liberrydude's review against another edition
2.0
A disappointment. Too slow paced. It took forever for them to get into the Beautiful North. I got tired of the stereotypical Mexicans, Indians, and gringos. It tried hard to be funny and satirical but it didn't succeed with me. I was hoping for a Don Quixote like quest but this one was not so. Ending was strange and disconnected too.
manaledi's review against another edition
4.0
The premise and characters in this book are ridiculous in the best sort of way. Leading to a humorous way to look at migration and the push/pull factors. The humanity and violence present on both sides of the border, from coyotes to border patrol agents. Overall a solid look at a very complex topic, and an enjoyable read to boot.
debr's review against another edition
5.0
I LOVE Alberto Urrea!! I love him. His writing is so incredibly wonderful and funny and sad and all the feels. This book is brilliant. I don’t know how anyone can write about something that is so funny and sad at the same time, but he manages to do it.
amb3rlina's review against another edition
4.0
I loved, loved, loved this book. His language and descriptions are just heart achingly lovely. Such an experience it was seeing the world through the character's eyes. A little funny, a little sad - altogether very atmospheric and just wonderful.
emilybryk's review against another edition
5.0
I was weirdly confronted on the subway while reading this book. Here's the situation: I'm on the R train at like 7:30, when I notice the man sitting near me learning halfway across the aisle to look at my book. He glares at it for a minute or so, gives me a big eye, and then turns to his wife, friend, whatever and declares slowly and portentously "people . . . have lost the ability . . . to transport themselves . . . through TIME. People . . . do not read . . . Victorian novels!"
Here's the thing: first, subway dude, I totally do, and even so, those were hardly successful (in general) at transporting the Victorians into other time periods, since a large number of them were set, um, in the Victorian period. More importantly, though, "Into the Beautiful North" is one of the most delightfully imaginative, transporting books I've read this year. The characters are lively and clearly drawn, and (often) unlike others I've encountered. It's heartfelt, funny, exciting. I could not recommend it more. More, even, than "Jude, the Obscure."
Here's the thing: first, subway dude, I totally do, and even so, those were hardly successful (in general) at transporting the Victorians into other time periods, since a large number of them were set, um, in the Victorian period. More importantly, though, "Into the Beautiful North" is one of the most delightfully imaginative, transporting books I've read this year. The characters are lively and clearly drawn, and (often) unlike others I've encountered. It's heartfelt, funny, exciting. I could not recommend it more. More, even, than "Jude, the Obscure."
katieproctorbooks's review against another edition
4.0
This book was nothing like I was expecting it to be. It was funny and sweet and kind of wild, unbelievable ride.
imjustmaria's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
notesonbookmarks's review against another edition
5.0
Why doesn't everyone talk about this book? Thank you, Katie S, for making sure I read it!
gitli57's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
5.0
Urrea is a marvel and this book is a joy. An excellent cast of characters, headed by Nayeli, one of the very best of the strong, young women leads that have taken over so much fiction in recent years (and not a moment too soon). Funny, difficult, heartfelt, hopeful without ever being sentimental. Urrea has been on my short list of favorite writers for a while and this will only bump him up a few places.