Robert Alvarez is the youngest and first one in his family born in the US. He is the future of his family. He works hard at school and never gets in trouble. Then the Lemon Grove School Board & the Chamber of Commerce create a separate school for all the Mexican children. It is in a barn and run by one teacher. Robert’s parent refuse to let him go to school in a barn. The Mexican community rallies and does fund raisers in order to earn enough money for a lawyer and choose Roberto as the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit against the school board. Unfortunately, many families are deported before the hearing, including his best friend. Roberto is their future and his family/community wins!

Wow! I had no idea any of this happened. I really enjoy verse novels and I really enjoyed this one. So much was on Roberto shoulders and how brave he was! I am glad the author talked about the whole incident at the end of the novel and also told about her history! This is going to be an important middle grade read!