A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection


A YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults 2022 Selection


A 2022 American Library Association Rainbow Book List Selection


Top 10 First Novels for Youth 2021 (ALA Booklist)


Winner of the 2022 Tomás Rivera Book Award


"Heart-wrenching. An ode to the children of migrants."
—Kirkus Reviews


"Aleman's writing is stellar, clear and emotional, realistic and suspenseful."
—Booklist, Starred Review


"A thoroughly openhearted debut [...] which will leave an indelible mark on the hearts of readers."
—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review


"Insightful.... The uncertainty and heartbreak faced by families separated by deportation is brilliantly displayed."
—School Library Journal


"Deeply moving. A potent reminder that no human being is illegal."
—Jodi Picoult, #1 New York Times bestselling author


"Poignant. An unforgettable chronicle of the fiercest, indomitable love and devotion."
—Jeff Zentner, Morris Award-winning author


"A total miracle of a book."
—Adam Sass, author of Surrender Your Sons


"Painfully honest and earnestly human. This book belongs on every shelf."
—Julian Winters, author of Running with Lions


"Powerful. This story is a reminder that there are no boundaries for love."
—Yamile Saied Méndez, bestselling author of Furia


"Intimate and emotional. At times heartbreaking, ultimately uplifting."
—Julia Drake, author of The Last True Poets of the Sea