Look Both Ways in the Barrio Blanco

Reviewed by: Patricia Temple - Long Island Community Libry, Long Island, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 8, 2015

Review

Twelve year old Jacinta's family lives a tenuous life in a Colorado city. Jacinta and her siblings were born in the United States, but their parents and Aunt are undocumented immigrants from Mexico. The book illustrates the dilemma of living half hidden to protect the family and the complicated effects that has on everyone involved. Jacinta spends much of her time after school at a neighborhood youth center. A chance meeting there with a local semi-celebrity newswoman gives her a glimpse into another lifestyle. Jacinta's actions, while understandable for a 12 yr. old, endanger the family and jeopardize Kate, the newswoman's career. None of the characters are strictly black/white, good/bad, but neither is this currently topical situation. A well written, suspenseful road trip ending make this a satisfying read. Good opportunity for discussion of immigration and it's gray areas.

Overall Book Score: very good