Fourth Grade Journey

A Fourth Grade Teacher's Journey Through the World of Books

Monday, June 29, 2020

Efren Divided by Ernesto Cisneros

How I Heard About It:
*There are some books that get a lot of book buzz on social media.  This is one such novel.  After I finished listening to Echo Mountain, I began listening to this story via Audible.


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
1.  *Efren is the oldest sibling of three which includes twins Mia and Max.

2.  *His parents are undocumented immigrants and Efren worries his family may get in trouble.



3.  *While Efren helps his best friend run for class president, his worst fear comes true when is mother is deported back across the border of Mexico.

4.  *He tries to keep his family problems away from school and the election, but as more and more days pass; it becomes harder and harder.

5.  *Efren is divided between standing by his friend and standing on his own two feet and working with another friend who has quite a bit in common with Efren.


What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
1.  *I'm glad I listened to the story via Audible because the narrator was so wonderful and the Spanish language was beautiful.

2.  *The topic/content of the story was quite timely and happening in our country.

3.  *I enjoyed how the author presented two story lines simultaneously showing how divided Efren actually was in both situations.

4.  *Efren is a one of a kind young man and any parent would be proud to call him their son.

5.  *Everything about this story was enjoyable, thought-provoking, and eye-opening.  I loved it!


Who Should Read It:
In my opinion, the book could be read by children in grades four and above.  The novel should be part of all classroom collections in grades three through six and of course in the middle-school library.  The story-line has so much to offer young readers.  Happy Reading!


Rating:   5 STARS out of 5 Stars







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