René Saldaña, Jr.

I just put down the book for the second time in my life and I'm happy to say that my thoughts on it have changed for the better. Being YA lit, something I hardly touch, this book shows that there are two versions of the Valley: The one in which we live in and the one we remember living in. René Saldaña, Jr. ventures into both. Leaving us nostalgic for our lost innocence, but appreciating the course of events that brought us here.

It's a joy to read for both adults and teens alike. Each show more powerful story reminds us that if we should trip and fall in our journey into adulthood, the world does allow second chances. All we have to is pick ourselves up, dust off our clothes and never lose our way. show less

What's appealing about this book is the depiction of true friendship and love between two best friends who are boys. These are "guy guys" who would never say aloud "I love you" but they genuinely have each other's backs and appreciate that about each other. Barry is rightfully angry that Alby has used him in a boxing/gambling scheme but both find a way to redeem the friendship they need so much. A great book for guys that expresses the emotions they feel for a close friend but don't have the show more words or ability to say it. show less

I enjoyed reading this coming-of-age story about a young boy named Rey. Half of his family lives in Texas and the other half lives in Mexico. As Rey grows up, he is expected to follow in his father's footsteps, but he is more interested in becoming his own person. Rey learns to appreciate his family and the life they have given him. The message behind this story is that you should always appreciate your culture and heritage because it is a part of who you are. Many middle school students, show more especially ones who have family in other countries, can relate to this story because it shows that figuring out your identity when you're young is not always easy. Additionally, I liked how this book was split into two different parts and it can be read as a whole or separately. show less

Rey, a young Hispanic boy lives just across the US border in Mexico. His family is happy living in Mexico near one set of grandparents until one night an earthquake destroys their house; his family barely escapes with their lives. His mother and father decide to move the family over the border into the US and they settle in Nuevo Penitas, Texas near Rey’s other grandparents. This story follows Rey’s family and school life as he grows into manhood. He comes to value hard work, honesty and show more family above all else. show less