Where I Belong
by Marcia Argueta Mickelson
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Pub Date Sep 07 2021 | Archive Date Oct 31 2021
Lerner Publishing Group | Carolrhoda Lab ®
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Description
In the spring of 2018, Guatemalan American high school senior Milagros “Millie” Vargas knows her life is about to change. She’s lived in Corpus Christi, Texas, ever since her parents sought asylum there when she was a baby. Now a citizen, Millie devotes herself to school and caring for her younger siblings while her mom works as a housekeeper for the wealthy Wheeler family. With college on the horizon, Millie is torn between attending her dream school and staying close to home, where she knows she’s needed. She’s disturbed by what’s happening to asylum-seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border, but she doesn’t see herself as an activist or a change-maker. She’s just trying to take care of her own family.
Then Mr. Wheeler, a U.S. Senate candidate, mentions Millie’s achievements in a campaign speech about “deserving” immigrants. It doesn’t take long for people to identify Millie’s family and place them at the center of a statewide immigration debate. Faced with journalists, trolls, anonymous threats, and the Wheelers' good intentions—especially those of Mr. Wheeler's son, Charlie—Millie must confront the complexity of her past, the uncertainty of her future, and her place in the country that she believed was home.
Advance Praise
"In Milagros Vargas, author Marcia Argueta Mickelson has brilliantly captured a voice for our times." —Diana López, author of Lucky Luna
"A thought-provoking book. Filled with courage, Millie will show us the way to a kinder, more compassionate way of being in the world."—Guadalupe García McCall, Pura Belpré Award-winning author
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781541597976 |
| PRICE | $18.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 264 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Abigail P, Book Trade Professional
I really enjoyed the book. You couldn’t help but love the characters the author wrote. She made sure they had their perfections and flaws that make them human, and overall relatable. I felt that the message the book gave was not only about sacrifices for family but having courage in times of need.
Kathy C, Reviewer
What a great story of our times. This book took me to Texas, and the issues those on the outside must face daily. I know I am a privileged person even more so after reading this.
Jade B, Reviewer
Wow, this was a fantastic read! I wish there were more books like "Where I Belong."🌟🌟🌟 3/3! While relationships are included with friends and a possible interest, the focus is on change and unity regarding immigration. Readers follow Millie as she navigates the hidden agenda, hate, and impact roles of immigration. I love that the author resonates and made Millie to have similarities of herself. Like the author, Millie moved to the United States from Guatemala. The story is personable and impactful. I strongly recommend this book, being my favorite thus far for the year, to all readers! I cannot wait to read more from the author.
As a teacher, I would love to include this in my class reading!
Three words to describe the book: Family, Immigration, and Unity
Chari K, Librarian
Millie and her family came to the United States from Honduras where they were granted asylum and are now citizens. Millie's mother works for a US Senate candidate and his family. When this Senate candidate mentions Millie as a reason to allow for a citizenship pathway while campaigning, unwanted attention is put on the family and causes them many problems. Millie is challenged between wanting to blend in and not be noticed like many immigrant families, and speaking out and using her platform to fight for change. Touches on many timely and important topics.
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