“Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan
“Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan tells the story of Esperanza Ortega, a young girl living a privileged life in Mexico during the Great Depression. However, tragedy strikes when her father dies, and she and her mother are forced to flee to California as migrant workers. Adjusting to a life of poverty and hard labor, Esperanza must navigate the challenges of discrimination, cultural adjustment, and the loss of her former life. Yet, through her resilience and determination, Esperanza learns valuable lessons about compassion, empathy, and the importance of family and community. Set against the backdrop of the Mexican-American experience, “Esperanza Rising” is a touching tale of personal growth, social justice, and the power of hope.
