We are Here to Stay by Susan Kuklin - OPTIONAL

We are Here to Stay by Susan Kuklin, 157 pages. Candlewick Press, 2019. $19.99

Language: PG-13 (14 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG-13; Violence: PG-13

BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS – OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

The American dream gives hope to more than those born in America. This collection of anonymous personal accounts explains the hope and desperation of those who take the chance to come to America any way they can. Individuals and families sacrifice and advocate for a better future—an opportunity to live the American dream.

These stories are shared to gain awareness and empathy for undocumented immigrants, and the conspicuous removal of names and pictures are a constant reminder of their cause. Kuklin and the interviewed young adults clearly explain their struggles with political policies that make living the American dream difficult. I enjoyed reading this book because of my new expanded knowledge of the world around me and how immigration policies are impacting real people.

Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen