60 pages • 2 hours read
Sanctuary
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
United States • 2030s
2020
YA
14-18 years
HL750L
Super Short Summary
In Sanctuary by Paola Mendoza and Abby Sher, set in a dystopian 2032 America, 16-year-old undocumented immigrant Vali must navigate a perilous journey from Vermont to California with her younger brother Ernie after their father is deported and murdered, and their mother is arrested. The siblings seek refuge in seceded California, a sanctuary for immigrants, while evading government agents, enduring treacherous landscapes, and relying on the aid of allies to survive. The book addresses xenophobia, violence, and trauma faced by immigrants.
Suspenseful
Dark
Unnerving
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
4,095 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sanctuary by Paola Mendoza and Abby Sher is a gripping dystopian novel that resonates with contemporary socio-political issues. Reviewers praise its intense, fast-paced narrative and emotional depth. However, some readers find the plot predictable and the character development lacking in complexity. Overall, it is a compelling read that invites reflection.
Who Should Read Sanctuary?
Readers who appreciate dystopian settings and immigrant narratives will find Sanctuary by Paola Mendoza and Abby Sher compelling. Fans of The Hunger Games and Refugee will be captivated by its blend of suspense, resilience, and social commentary, making it a must-read for young adult dystopian fiction enthusiasts.
4,095 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
United States • 2030s
2020
YA
14-18 years
HL750L
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