The Land of Cranes by Aida Salazar

A haunting story about a young girl thrown into a detention center while awaiting deportation with her mother. 

Betita loves the stories her father tells her about her people. It makes her feel strong and hopeful. When her father is arrested and deported, Betita is worried for him. They left Mexico to escape the drug cartels. Soon Betita and her mother find themselves in a detention center awaiting asylum or deportation. The detention center is horrendous, but Betita finds the hope within and lifts up others with her. 

Truly ripped from the headlines storytelling, that is so difficult to read, but so important to be aware of. The power of story, the power of Betita is a not to miss book. Recommended grades 6 and up.

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