Journey of the Sparrows
Journey of the Sparrows
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1990
Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • 1980s
1990
Middle grade
12-17 years
760L
Super Short Summary
Journey of the Sparrows by Fran Leeper Buss follows the harrowing journey of 15-year-old Maria and her siblings as they escape war-torn El Salvador to seek refuge in the U.S., navigating the dangers of illegal immigration, economic hardship, and cultural acclimation in Chicago. Themes include survival, family, courage, faith, and immigration. The book addresses sexual violence, and traumatic loss of family members.
Emotional
Dark
Challenging
Mysterious
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
352 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of Fran Leeper Buss's Journey of the Sparrows praise its heartfelt depiction of immigrant struggles and the resilience of its young protagonists. Readers appreciate the engaging, realistic narrative and nuanced characters but note the plot’s predictability. Some find the writing simplistic. Overall, it's valued for its authentic emotional impact and social relevance.
Who Should Read Journey of the Sparrows?
Readers who enjoy Journey of the Sparrows by Fran Leeper Buss are often drawn to heartfelt stories of resilience and immigration. They would appreciate similar themes found in Sandra Cisneros's The House on Mango Street and Patricia Reilly Giff's Pictures of Hollis Woods, which focus on family struggles, identity, and hope amidst adversity.
352 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
160
Novel • Fiction
Chicago, Illinois • 1980s
1990
Middle grade
12-17 years
760L
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