Plot Summary

Undocumented

Dan-el Padilla Peralta
Guide cover placeholder

Undocumented

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2015

Book Brief

Dan-el Padilla Peralta

Undocumented

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

New York City • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

930L

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Super Short Summary

Dan-el Padilla Peralta's autobiography, Undocumented: A Dominican Boy’s Odyssey from a Homeless Shelter to the Ivy League, describes his journey from the Dominican Republic to New York, where his family faced poverty and homelessness. He excelled academically, first at Collegiate and later at Princeton, overcoming numerous obstacles, including his undocumented status, with the support of mentors and sheer determination.

Challenging

Inspirational

Hopeful

Emotional

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

1,907 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Undocumented by Dan-el Padilla Peralta reveals a compelling story of resilience amid hardship. Reviewers praise its heartfelt, honest narrative and insightful commentary on immigration. Critics note occasional narrative unevenness, but overall, it's a powerful testament to the immigrant experience and the enduring human spirit.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Undocumented?

Readers who would enjoy Undocumented by Dan-el Padilla Peralta are typically engaged in narratives about immigration, resilience, and social justice. They are akin to fans of The Distance Between Us by Reyna Grande and Enrique’s Journey by Sonia Nazario. These readers often appreciate memoirs that blend personal struggle with broader societal issues.

4.3

1,907 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

New York City • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

930L

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