American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

Review:

I went into this book knowing that there was a TON of public backlash right around the time of publication.  After reading this book, I was fortunate enough to be invited to a private Zoom meeting with the author, Jeanine, and a group of women who know her from different walks of life.   It was an AMAZING experience and I can tell you that this is a woman who is WORTH keeping track of in the literary, as well as humanitarian, world.  For the record, ANYONE who says she 'shouldn't have written this book since she didn't personally experience Mexican migration,' is SORELY mistaken because she has done the research, and she has brought a serious situation in our country to light.  And if we can't expect our FICTION authors to be allowed to write what they feel/believe, while also adhering to the truth via research, then we really don't respect the institution of writing.

That said, the books was excellent.  I don't have much experience or knowledge with what Mexican immigrants must go through in order to come into this country, but after reading American Dirt, my eyes have been opened.  There is so much pain and loss right along side with love and hope in these strong, courageous people.  I can only hope that I would show as much bravery and faith as Lydia does on her journey.  
Questions:

1.  Did Javier love Lydia?  If so, did she love him back?

2.  Would you travel on La Bestia if you had your son with you?  Alone? 

3.  Will any of the children be able to psychologically recover from their experiences?  

CROWNSTAR Rating:

.5

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