Pam Muñoz Ryan

Esperanza and her mother are forced to leave their life of wealth and privilege in Mexico to go work in the labor camps of Southern California, where they must adapt to the harsh circumstances facing Mexican farm workers on the eve of the Great Depression.

Esperanza Rising

Pam Mun oz Ryan

Esperanza rising

Jeweliet Coffee

Amira 

I Read this book as a child and I loved it so much, while I still enjoy it and appreciate it for the topics it speaks of for a children’s book, I do wish the American dream aspects of the story was less in my face. The strikers are treated in a way that allows for sympathy but makes it seem like their ideas, there being more people who are poor vs the rich, of unity, was treated like they were far fetched and if they’d just stuck it out it would be better. However, I am aware that this was based off of her grandmothers story so this idea of the American dream and from rags to a much distant future filled with riches or achievements might of come from her, though the authors note leads me to believe the author holds this belief too. Besides that, it’s a nice nostalgic book for me :) 4/5 stars. (Also, Miguel is the best character)

Raven K

the author's note was everything <3. I enjoyed this book so much, man. historical fiction will always be one of my favorite genres. I love how it's somehow both real and not at the same time. that will forever intrigue me. this story was honestly so inspiring and just overall enjoyable. Pam Muñoz Ryan will always be one of my favorite authors. her work is just too beautiful and I love her writing. it's definitely unique and special. this book was everything I had hoped it would be.

J’Naia Stepp

I read this in fifth grade and it has stuck with me since. It is possibly one of my favorite books ever. It’s beautifully written and the characters make you want to keep reading so you see what happens to them.

This book is easy to read, full of emotion, and soaked in wisdom. 

Emmie B.

Nadine 

This is one of those books that can be considered a timeless classic. Beautifully written weaving in cultural and linguistic references, a gripping story, characters you care about, an interesting period in history- the book has it all. Recommended for upper primary/ lower middle school

Laura Yaneth Martinez

It is about a young girl named Esparanza having to deal with alot of tough stuff. Later on in the story things start happening to people(three)and get injured,ill or die. It is an emotional story it is really good. I would recommend it to strong readers.

Kelly Casey

Rocio

Fer Azura

Erin O’Donnell

boram

Esperanza Rising joins the Scholastic Gold line, which features award-winning and beloved novels. Includes exclusive bonus content! Esperanza thought she'd always live a privileged life on her family's ranch in Mexico. She'd always have fancy dresses, a beautiful home filled with servants, and Mama, Papa, and Abuelita to care for her. But a sudden tragedy forces Esperanza and Mama to flee to California and settle in a Mexican farm labor camp. Esperanza isn't ready for the hard work, financial struggles brought on by the Great Depression, or lack of acceptance she now faces. When Mama gets sick and a strike for better working conditions threatens to uproot their new life, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances-because Mama's life, and her own, depend on it.

Esperanza Rising

Reviews

Highlights