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239
Novel • Fiction
El Salvador • 1980s
2000
YA
18+ years
In The Weight of All Things by Sandra Benitez, nine-year-old Nicolás embarks on a perilous journey in war-torn El Salvador after his mother is killed during Archbishop Romero’s funeral. In search of her, Nicolás faces the devastation of his hometown, becomes involved with guerrillas, and narrowly escapes various dangers, all while guided by his faith and the statue of La Virgen Milagrosa. This book contains descriptions of war-related violence and trauma.
Melancholic
Emotional
Suspenseful
Challenging
Dark
1,115 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sandra Benitez's The Weight of All Things has received mixed reviews. Critics praise its emotive portrayal of the Salvadoran Civil War and the depth of the protagonist's journey, lauding Benitez's lyrical prose. However, some reviewers feel that the pacing is uneven and that certain character developments lack depth. Overall, it is considered a poignant but sometimes flawed historical novel.
Readers who appreciate poignant, character-driven narratives set against historical backdrops would enjoy The Weight of All Things by Sandra Benitez. Fans of Isabel Allende's The House of the Spirits or Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner will find similar themes of survival, resilience, and the personal impacts of political turmoil.
1,115 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tino Veras
Nicolás's grandfather, who lives a humble life in the mountains. He is wise and shares Nicolás's peaceful nature and magical thinking.
Letty Veras
Nicolás’s mother, a devout Catholic woman whose deep faith influences Nicolás even after her death. Her character is revealed through the memories of Nicolás and Tata.
Señor Alvarado
A wealthy man who is generous with his resources, supplying medical aid during the war. He remains calm and kind throughout the chaos.
Doctor Eddy
A doctor with Mexican heritage who assists the FPL by providing medical training. He inspires Nicolás’s interest in medicine through his bravery and nonviolent approach.
Dolores
The leader of an FPL squad who commandeers Tata's home. She is strong-willed and uses persuasion more than force to assert her influence.
Gerardo
A young FPL soldier who treats Nicolás kindly, despite the danger of war. His family situation highlights the personal costs of the conflict.
Elias
An FPL soldier and Gerardo's friend, who is resilient in the face of tragedy and loss. He embodies the hope for a brighter future for El Salvador.
Carmen
The camp cook in Dolores’s group who provides motherly care to Nicolás. She represents the nurturing aspects of the campesino life.
Ofelia
The cook at the Army garrison who is suspicious of Nicolás. Her refined cooking and cold demeanor contrast with Carmen’s.
Vidal
A young soldier at the Army garrison who treats Nicolás fairly. His positive interactions with Nicolás highlight the complexities of the war.
The Captain
The leader of the Army unit responsible for imposing strict military control. His demeanor and actions reveal the harsh realities of the military presence in El Salvador.
239
Novel • Fiction
El Salvador • 1980s
2000
YA
18+ years
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