50 pages • 1 hour read
We Are Not from Here
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Book Brief
326
Novel • Fiction
Central America • Contemporary
2020
YA
15-18 years
HL700L
Super Short Summary
We Are Not from Here by Jenny Torres Sanchez is a contemporary young adult novel that follows three Guatemalan teenagers—Pulga, Chico, and Pequeña—who flee their hometown to escape violence and seek a better life in the United States, facing numerous harrowing challenges and life-threatening dangers along the migrant route. The novel examines traumatic experiences of physical, emotional, and sexual violence.
Challenging
Melancholic
Emotional
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
7,551 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
We Are Not from Here by Jenny Torres Sanchez is powerfully evocative, portraying the harrowing journey of teenagers fleeing violence in Central America. Critics praise its emotional depth and raw, realistic portrayal of trauma. Some find the graphic content unsettling, although it adds to the narrative’s authenticity. This compelling read elicits empathy and awareness.
Who Should Read We Are Not from Here?
A reader who would enjoy We Are Not from Here by Jenny Torres Sanchez is likely drawn to emotionally powerful narratives about resilience and migration. Fans of The Distance Between Us by Reyna Grande and The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez will find similar themes of struggle, hope, and identity in this compelling story.
7,551 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Chico
Chico
Chico is a 13-year-old boy and Pulga's best friend. He stays with Pulga's family after his own mother was killed. He joins Pulga on the journey north but faces challenges due to his youth and fear.
Rey Villa
Rey Villa
Rey is a dangerous gang leader and antagonist in _We Are Not from Here_. He conscripts Pulga and Chico into his gang and is a threat to those living in Puerto Barrios, pushing Pulga and others to flee.
Consuelo
Consuelo
Consuelo is Pulga's mother and Chico's adoptive mother. She provides support and represents the ties to home that Pulga leaves behind on his journey.
326
Novel • Fiction
Central America • Contemporary
2020
YA
15-18 years
HL700L
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