A review by abbie_
Efrén Divided by Ernesto Cisneros

emotional hopeful sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
I think this may have been my first middle-grade book ever and it made me cry twice so I think I’m safe in saying I will be checking out more MG books!

Efrén Divided is a beautiful (and heart-achingly sad) tale of family and strength. When Efrén’s Amá is deported, he must step in to take care of his little brother and sister while his Apá works tirelessly trying to raise the money to bring her back. I’ve obviously never been in this situation myself, but I though Ernesto Cisneros depicted it beautifully. I could feel Efrén’s fierce love for his brother and sister, even if they can be a handful at times. He’s just a 12-year-old boy trying his best and his best was incredible to watch 😭

I loved most of the secondary characters too, especially Jennifer, Efrén’s classmate at school. I wish there was more Jennifer in the story! The class president storyline did a great job of showing the importance of getting involved, helping people, and taking steps towards tangible change. A worthy lesson for everyone, not just kids! I wasn’t a huge fan of David though, but that might have been because the narrator voiced him like a 40-year-old man who smokes 50 a day 🥴

Really can’t recommend this one enough if you’re interested in trying some MG lit! It’s engaging and emotional, making kids aware of the devastating consequences of ICE raids on undocumented families.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings