About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is processing the heavy realities of the current immigration landscape or if they are grappling with the sudden weight of adult responsibilities. It is an essential resource for families looking to foster deep empathy for the lived experiences of undocumented communities and the children left behind by deportation. The story follows Mateo, a New York City teen whose dreams of Broadway are sidelined when his parents are detained by ICE, forcing him to become the primary caregiver for his younger sister. While the subject matter is intense, the book focuses on the profound bond of family and the resilience required to navigate a broken system. It deals with themes of anxiety, systemic injustice, and the loss of innocence with a realistic but compassionate lens. Parents will appreciate how the book validates the fear and anger felt by many young people today while providing a roadmap for finding strength in community and heritage. It is best suited for mature middle schoolers and high school students who are ready to engage with complex social issues.
