This is one of the best memoirs I’ve ever read. I loved the writing in this memoir; as a reader, Javier truly takes readers with him on his journey from El Salvador to Guatemala to Mexico and into the United States. The details of the moments of each day made this story stand out. While this is an emotional read, small moments of joy woven into this story made me feel all the emotions. This book made me both laugh and cry.

This is not an easy story to read, but it is an important one. It made me reflect on the experiences of my family, friends, clients I used to represent, those who are displaced and forced out of their homes, Palestine and, of course, individuals who never make it to their destination.  

I loved seeing so many references to Salvadoran culture. Cipotes will feel so seen! 🇸🇻 As a first-gen salvadoreña, this is a book that I needed to read.

I also appreciated reading about the racism and prejudices that exist within Central and Latin America. I feel it’s a topic rarely discussed, but that exists and is extremely harmful.