82 pages • 2 hours read
The Only Road
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Guatemala To New Mexico • Contemporary
2016
Middle grade
9-12 years
830L
Super Short Summary
The Only Road by Alexandra Diaz follows young cousins Jaime and Ángela as they flee their Guatemalan village after a local gang kills Ángela’s brother, Miguel, threatening them to join or face a similar fate. Embarking on a perilous 4,000-kilometer journey to the United States to reunite with Jaime’s brother, Tomás, they endure numerous dangers and hardships, relying on their wits, the kindness of strangers, and their unwavering bond. The story highlights the human cost of migration, the resilience of the human spirit, and the significance of family and dreams amidst adversity. The book contains sensitive topics such as gang violence, death, and the perils of migration.
Adventurous
Emotional
Challenging
Hopeful
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
2,997 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Only Road by Alexandra Diaz is widely praised for its authentic and poignant depiction of the harrowing journey of young migrant protagonists. Critics commend the compelling narrative and emotional depth. However, some found the storyline occasionally predictable. Overall, it's celebrated for its important themes and strong character development.
Who Should Read The Only Road?
An ideal reader for The Only Road by Alexandra Diaz is a young adult who appreciates compelling, culturally rich narratives about resilience and friendship. Fans of Esperanza Rising and Enrique's Journey will find this novel's story of two cousins navigating their perilous journey from Guatemala to the US gripping and inspiring.
2,997 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ángela
Ángela
Ángela is Jaime’s cousin who, at 15, faces the threats of gang recruitment and makes a perilous journey alongside Jaime, illustrating the struggles faced by young women in similar situations.
Miguel
Miguel
Jaime’s cousin who, at 12, becomes a victim of gang violence, catalyzing the journey that Jaime and Ángela undertake in search of safety.
Xavi
Xavi
A 17-year-old from El Salvador who joins Jaime and Ángela on their journey, motivated by the desire for freedom and control over his future.
Rafa
Rafa
A 17-year-old leaving Honduras to escape an unstable home environment, distinguished by his cheeky demeanor and ultimate bravery.
Joaquín
Joaquín
An 11-year-old who travels with Jaime’s group and is later revealed to be a girl in disguise, highlighting the desperation behind her solo journey.
Pulguita
Pulguita
A young gang member who tempts others to join, representing the difficult choices faced by those in poverty.
Padre Kevin
Padre Kevin
A non-traditional priest running a migrant shelter who must navigate complex relationships to provide aid to those in need.
El Gordo
El Gordo
A smuggler who profits from helping migrants cross the border, embodying a morally ambiguous character through his cooperation with Padre Kevin.
320
Novel • Fiction
Guatemala To New Mexico • Contemporary
2016
Middle grade
9-12 years
830L
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