She wants to promote local awareness and changes to a system that cages undocumented children. Jennifer confides her fears for her undocumented mother and shares her research about the separation of immigrant families in America. Today, Jennifer Huerta approaches him in the library, and they chat about books, school, and the election. He loves to read and often checks out several books at a time. Salas, Efrén heads to the library during morning breaktime. After attending a meeting with David to hear the rules and responsibilities of running for an office from Leadership teacher Ms.

David thinks his election will lead to popularity, and he plans to use the position to institute fun (but unrealistic) changes, like eliminating homework. David thinks he will win easily over the only other candidate, Jennifer Huerta, a know-it-all girl in their grade. On the way, he meets best friend David, who explains his decision to run for president in the upcoming school election. Because both of his parents left Mexico for America without authorization, they are in danger of being discovered by la migra (immigration officials) and deported.Īmá allows Efrén to walk on his own to school that day for the first time. Tired from waiting up late for Amá to return home from work, Efrén reflects on recent talk and rumors in the neighborhood regarding the arrest and deportment of undocumented workers.

Efrén thinks of Amá as a “Soperwoman” not just for her meal-making ability but in the way she tends to all the family’s needs while working long hours in a factory setting ironing garments. As seventh grader Efrén Nava watches his mother prepare breakfast for his twin kindergarten siblings, Max and Mia, he is amazed by her ability to make wonderful sopes so easily.

Ernesto cisneros books