The Other Side of the River

August 15, 2022
Safely across the R�o Bravo, Petra's journey continues in this follow-up to Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna (2021). It's 1913, and while the revolution rages on in Mexico, Petra and her family find temporary safety in a refugee camp on the U.S. side of the river. But as rebel soldiers recapture some areas, the camp cannot handle the influx of people escaping the violence. The displaced are given the option of returning to Mexico or staying in the country and finding work. Holding fast to her "baby diamond," the lump of coal she keeps in her pocket that reminds her of her goals, Petra decides to get a job in the States to keep her family fed until they can find her father. They head north to los corrales, a poor, predominantly Mexican neighborhood in San Antonio. Though she believes at first that being a hard, loyal worker will yield rewards, Petra quickly discovers that the American dream may not be all it is cracked up to be. She must reorient herself to her own values in order to get ahead while maintaining her integrity. The stakes feel lower in this sequel; there are fewer threats of violence, and struggles are resolved relatively easily. The novel highlights the barriers and abuses faced by many new immigrants both historically and today through short chapters that keep the pace moving toward a happy ending. Readable historical fiction with themes that resonate. (author's note) (Historical fiction. 10-14)

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September 15, 2022
Grades 5-8 After crossing the R�o Bravo with her younger siblings and their Abuelita, Petra finds refuge and food in an American camp, where they must choose between returning to Mexico or staying in America. Petra obtains train tickets to a city named San Antonio, which brings her to Sister Nora, who helps her find work, broaden her knowledge of the world, and learn to read and write. Harsh words soon remind Petra of how mestizos like her are regarded, making her wish she could flee back to Mexico, but a twist of fate, support from Sister Nora, and her young sister's bravery help Petra see a bright future within reach. In this sequel to Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna (2021), Petra continues to be a strong, brave protagonist who takes on many worries and responsibilities. Difficult topics such as racism, classism, and poverty are explored, leading Petra to the understanding that prejudice can attack anyone, regardless of skin color. A suspenseful ending brings heartfelt closure, and an author's note provides additional information on the plot and characters.

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October 1, 2022

Gr 5-8-The indomitable Petra continues to fight for her family's survival in this continuation of Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna, though familiarity with the previous volume isn't necessary to enjoy this companion. They've outrun the federales, the military arm of Mexico's dictator, and have made it across the border. But their struggles have only just begun. The group is met with a smallpox-ridden refugee camp, poverty, and racism as 12-year-old Petra tries to find work and learn to read and write. Along the way to San Antonio, their dreams are hindered by obstacles. This is a vivid glimpse into the 1913 Mexican Revolution and its aftermath, much of which is still relevant to today's immigration and refugee crisis. While Petra is living in a very specific moment in history with a particular conflict, she also must navigate the usual coming-of-age issues that will resonate with current tweens, such as friendships, siblings, and living up to people's expectations. Her touching relationships with her grandmother and siblings will resonate in readers. Dobbs's engaging writing and the even pace of the narrative move the story forward. Petra and her family are Indigenous to Mexico. An author's note gives more context and shares how this story was inspired by Dobbs's grandmother. Though Petra's family's triumph is never in doubt, kids will be pulled in enough to follow the characters' journey. VERDICT A moving glimpse at an important historical event through the eyes of an unforgettable protagonist. Purchase for historical fiction shelves.-Shelley M. Diaz

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