Un País En Mi Mochila - by Yarimar Marrero (Paperback)

About the Book

""A timely coming-of-age novel about an immigrant teen finding a place in her new world. Protagonist Valeria 'Val' Oca is a New Jersey high schooler who is adjusting to U.S. life far from her Havana, Cuba home. Val's papi, grandparents, and boyfriend Leo are always just a phone call away, but daily life with her mother Ana is a struggle. Together, they tackle the consequences of crossing the U.S.-Mexico border on foot, straight into Homeland Security's hands. On her first day at Paterson's Eastside High, Val relates her migration story. This Spanish-language account depicts a 14-year-old's resilience in the face of imminent danger. Valeria isn't meant to be a poster child for those who come to the U.S. illegally. Rather, she is a force to be contended with, equally girlish and rebellious, when not just plainly overwhelmed. Through Val, Marrero gives voice to undocumented immigrants who navigate harsh circumstances at the U.S. southern border and stateside. This novel is a must-read for anyone who has made tough choices and taken risks to forge a better future."--

Book Synopsis

Valeria, a young Cuban girl, faces the most challenging journey of her life when she emigrates to the United States with her mother. Leaving behind the only home she's ever known, Valeria's path is fraught with danger as she crosses the Mexican border illegally. Once in the U.S., she must navigate the complexities of a new culture, a new school, and the harsh realities of being undocumented. Un paí s en mi mochila is a powerful coming-of-age story that delves into the trials of leaving one's homeland, the hardships of starting anew, and the enduring hope for a better future.

About the Author

Yarimar Marrero is a Puerto Rican author and researcher born in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico in 1990. She studied Journalism at the University of Puerto Rico and holds a MS in Sociology from the University of Havana, Cuba. In 2017 she published her first book for children titled El mensaje de Guasá . Her first novel, Los secretos de La Torre was published by Editorial Destellos in 2021.