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Efrén Divided

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Ernesto Cisneros

Efrén Divided

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

710L

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Super Short Summary

In Efrén Divided, seventh grader Efrén Nava's life is turned upside down when his mother is deported to Mexico. While his father works extra jobs to raise money for her return, Efrén shoulders the responsibility of caring for his twin siblings and managing schoolwork. Determined to bring his mother back, Efrén undertakes a dangerous trip to deliver money in Tijuana, learning the harsh realities faced by immigrant families. Sensitive topics in this book include family separation and undocumented immigration.

Emotional

Challenging

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.5

6,178 ratings

87%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Efrén Divided by Ernesto Cisneros offers a poignant look at the struggles of undocumented families. Reviewers praise its heartfelt narrative and rich character development, noting that it effectively raises awareness about immigration issues. Some criticisms mention that the plot can be somewhat predictable, but overall, it’s lauded for its emotional depth and timely relevance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Efrén Divided?

Readers who enjoyed Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan or The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Pérez will likely appreciate Efrén Divided by Ernesto Cisneros. This novel appeals to middle-grade readers interested in stories about family, resilience, and navigating the challenges of immigration.

4.5

6,178 ratings

87%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Efrén Nava

A seventh grader living in southern California, Efrén is diligent, kind, and deeply committed to his family, sharing a small apartment with his parents and twin siblings.

Efrén’s hardworking mother, often described as a "Soperwoman" for her ability to manage both a demanding job and her family's needs, endures challenges that deeply affect her family's dynamics.

Efrén’s father, formerly a police lieutenant in Mexico, now works in construction in the US and balances multiple jobs to support his family and manage financial strain.

Efrén’s best friend and fellow seventh grader, known for his distinctive style and living with his grandmother while supporting his mother's efforts to improve their lives.

Efrén’s classmate, known for her academic diligence, who shares a mutual interest in literature with Efrén and offers him encouragement in his personal challenges.

A taxicab driver in Tijuana who aids Efrén during a pivotal moment, revealing personal sacrifices made to support his daughter’s prospects for a better future.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

United States • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

710L

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