Sponsored by Scribner, publisher of She Come By It Natural by Sarah Smarsh.
The National Book Award finalist and New York Times bestselling author of Heartland focuses her laser-sharp insights on one of the most unifying figures in American culture: Dolly Parton. Infused with Smarsh’s trademark insight, intelligence, and humanity, She Come By It Natural is a sympathetic tribute to the icon Dolly Parton and—call it whatever you like—the organic feminism she embodies. “Smarsh and Parton are a perfect pairing for the kind of in-depth examination into gender and class and what it means to be a woman and a working-class hero that feels particularly important right now.” —Refinery29
Welcome to Read This Book, the newsletter where I recommend a book you should add to your TBR, STAT! I stan variety in all things, and my book recommendations will be no exception. These must-read books will span genres and age groups. There will be new releases, oldie but goldies from the backlist, and the classics you may have missed in high school. Oh my! If you’re ready to diversify your books, then LEGGO!!
Tomorrow is the last day of Hispanic Heritage Month, and I would be remiss if I let this celebration end without recommending a book written by an Hispanic author. Hopefully, you’ve had the opportunity to read at least one book written by an Hispanic author within the past month. I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews about the recently published Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia for the horror / fantasy crowd. For the scaredy cats like me, today’s recommendation is definitely more family friendly.
Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez
After his father is injured in a tractor accident, Tyler’s family must hire migrant Mexican workers to keep their Vermont farm from going into foreclosure. Tyler isn’t sure how to feel about the situation because they might not have the proper documents to be in this country. Then there are the family’s three daughters, particularly the oldest daughter Mari. She is proud of her Mexican heritage, but is becoming increasingly connected to her American life. Will Tyler and Mari find a way to become friends despite their differences?
Although this story takes place around 2005 and 2006 when ICE Raids were historical almost everyday occurrences, Return to Sender feels as current as ever when America’s new “Deporter-in-Chief” and his administration gleefully continue separating families at the United States-Mexico border. Mari and her family are constantly in fear of being captured by la migra and being separated. While Mari and her parents were born in Mexico, Mari’s sisters were born in North Carolina, so are technically American citizens. Return to Sender will help readers find the humanity behind the headlines.
I enjoyed this middle grade book, and it didn’t take long for me to become engaged in the story. Moreover, I think it’s a great book for parents and children to read together, then use the discussion questions included in the back of the book to share their thoughts on the book’s key themes of citizenship and immigration.
I recommend reading Return to Sender no matter your stance on the issue of immigration. The book may confirm your suspicions, or it may help you see the issue from a different point of view. Characters in the story like Tyler and Mr. Rossetti learn the issue of immigration is complicated, and it is hard to be against undocumented Mexican workers being in the United States once you know their stories and how they contribute to the American economy.
Until next time bookish friends,
Katisha
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