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Jeanine Cummins: American Dirt (Paperback, 2022, Holt Paperbacks) 4 stars

Review of 'American Dirt' on 'Goodreads'

4 stars

There had been a lot of varied opinions about the authenticity of this novel and some very expansive reviews going into very political analysis. Don’t read them! Or, if you have already, forget them!

It’s a gripping tale of Mexican immigrants, fast paced and believable. Remember, it’s a WORK OF FICTION and as long as you’re not expecting factual confirmation of the plot, you may find yourself immersed, gripped and shaken by the travails of Lydia and her son Luca. From the first page they are sent running from a murderous drug cartel. Through the ups and downs of their journey we experience the suffering, drama, inhumanity and humanity of migrants and various parties they encounter on their way. So, just close your eyes—or, since you can’t well read with your eyes closed, rather relax and let yourself be carried in the current of the fate carrying the protagonist toward the perceived better, or safer, life.