Based on the Los Angeles Times newspaper series that won
two Pulitzer Prizes, this astonishing story puts a human face on the ongoing debate about immigration reform in the United States. Now a beloved classic, this page-turner about the power of family is a popular text in classrooms and a touchstone for communities across the country to engage in meaningful discussions about this essential American subject. It was one of the most frequently selected books for freshman common reads in 2015-16 academic year, according to Inside Higher Education.
Enrique’s Journey recounts the unforgettable quest of a Honduran boy looking for his mother, eleven years after she is forced to leave her starving family to find work in the United States. Braving unimaginable peril, often clinging to the sides and tops of freight trains, Enrique travels through hostile worlds full of thugs, bandits, and corrupt cops. But he pushes forward, relying on his wit, courage, hope, and the kindness of strangers. As Isabel Allende writes: “This is a twenty-first-century Odyssey. If you are going to read only one nonfiction book this year, it has to be this one.” Now updated with a new Epilogue and Afterword, photos of Enrique and his family, an author interview and more, this is a classic of contemporary America.
- National Bestseller
- Named one of the best books of the year by the Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, Miami Herald, and San Antonio Express-News.
- Named the Best Non-Fiction Book of 2014 by The Latino Author.
- Among the most chosen books as a freshman or common read: nearly 100 universities, more than 20 cities and scores of high schools nationwide have adopted Enrique’s Journey as a their freshman or common read. Middle schools are now adopting a version adapted for young readers as their common read.
- Published in August 2013: A new version of Enrique’s Journey ADAPTED FOR YOUNG READERS in the 7th grade on up and for reluctant readers in high school and geared to the new common core standards in schools. The Young Adult version was published Spanish in July 2015. New York City has made the YA edition part of its classroom curriculum.
- Published in February 2014: A REVISED AND UPDATED Enrique’s Journey, with a new epilogue and photos.
- Published in eight languages.