As I was thinking about my favorite historical fiction book for this week, one automatically came to my mind: Esperanza Rising. This was my favorite because I loved the theme of perseverance and determination. Esperanza must learn to live a new life as a poor migrant in California after her father is killed, and her home in Mexico is destroyed. When Esperanza’s mom is sent to the hospital, she begins working in the fields to support them. Esperanza then has a breaking point saying she has lost all hope, and Miguel, a friend who she confides in, disappears. Eventually, Miguel comes back with Esperanza’s grandmother, and her mother returns from the hospital. She has struggled a lot, but realizes that those had made her stronger.
While this book is set in the 1930’s, I believe what makes this book historical fiction is the implication of immigration. During this time period, there was major immigration happening from Mexico to America due to the Mexican Revolution that was happening during the time. Also, it is set during the time of the Great Depression where people in America were struggling to make ends meet. Being an immigrant during this time was not beneficial either because many immigrants lived in poor housing conditions and were not being paid a livable wage either.
Looking back on this book, I believe that the book is meant for two audiences: young adults AND matured adults. Young adults can learn how to take on more responsibilities and “mature” in life like Esperanza did after she moved to California. They also can see how multicultural families grow up so they realize that everyone has a different experience than their own. Older adults can grasp the harsh realities that immigrants were facing then and even today. They can see where different sociological factors (like race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic class) intersect and connect it to their own privileges or disadvantages that they acquire through the social world.
-SK
A Novel Idea 
Dear SK,
This sounds like a great book. I really like how you showed what readers of all ages can get out of this book. I definitely agree that this book is reflection the immigration period. Good job!
-MP
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This was also one of the first books I thought about when I heard historical fiction YA. I think this book was really important in showing children that historical fiction can be interesting. I also think it’s important for children to hear about history through the eyes of other children. It makes the content more relatable and can have a more profound impact on the reader.
-SG
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