49 pages • 1 hour read
The Far Away Brothers: Two Young Migrants and the Making of an American Life
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Book Brief
320
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2017
Crown
Adult
14-18 years
890L
Super Short Summary
The Far Away Brothers by Lauren Markham tells the true story of 17-year-old Salvadoran twins, Ernesto and Raúl Flores, who flee gang violence in El Salvador and embark on a perilous journey through Central America and Mexico, ultimately crossing the Rio Grande into the United States as unaccompanied minors. In California, they face challenges like repaying coyotes, navigating high school, and coping with the trauma of their experiences. The book delves into issues of gang violence, exploitation, and substance abuse.
Informative
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
2,325 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Far Away Brothers by Lauren Markham has been praised for its compelling narrative and empathetic portrayal of the immigrant experience. Critics commend its depth and the author's journalistic rigor. However, some feel the pacing can be slow. Overall, it's a powerful and insightful read that sheds light on complex socio-political issues.
Who Should Read The Far Away Brothers?
Readers who are captivated by immigration stories and human resilience will enjoy The Far Away Brothers by Lauren Markham. This book is akin to Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario and Tell Me How It Ends by Valeria Luiselli. It appeals to those who seek an intimate, personal perspective on the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants.
2,325 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Raúl Flores and Ernesto Flores
Raúl Flores and Ernesto Flores
Salvadorian twins who migrated to the United States to escape gang violence, embodying the struggles of unaccompanied migrant children.
Wilber Flores Jr.
Wilber Flores Jr.
The older brother of Raúl and Ernesto, who migrated earlier and provides them with shelter and support as their legal guardian in northern California.
Wilber Flores Sr.
Wilber Flores Sr.
The twins' father, a farmer who uses his land as collateral to finance their migration journey and struggles with the repercussions.
Esperanza Flores
Esperanza Flores
The twins’ mother, who, along with Wilber Sr., desired a large family but faces financial challenges in supporting them.
Maricela Flores
Maricela Flores
The twins’ older sister, who manages their debt and dreams of migrating to the United States, while raising two children with Cesar.
Ricardo Flores
Ricardo Flores
The firstborn son of Wilber Sr. and Esperanza, known for his struggles with alcoholism and abusive behavior towards Maricela.
Don Agustín
Don Agustín
The twins’ wealthy and gang-connected uncle whose threats contribute to their decision to migrate to the United States.
Sandra
Sandra
The coyote who assists Ernesto and Raúl through Guatemala and Mexico, providing support during their journey.
Gabby
Gabby
Wilber Jr.'s girlfriend in California, who helps support the twins and accompanies them to court dates.
Sofia
Sofia
Ernesto’s 15-year-old girlfriend and the mother of his child, a Salvadoran American who shares a school with the twins.
320
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2017
Crown
Adult
14-18 years
890L
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