Dear America: Young Readers’ Edition: The Story of an Undocumented Citizen by Jose Antonio Vargas
Published by HarperCollins on March 5th 2019
ISBN: 0062914596
Pages: 144
Goodreads

“Dear America” is an autobiography of an undocumented citizen in America. Jose Antonio Vargas came to America from the Philippines at age twelve to live with his aunt and uncle and did not find out that he was not here legally until he turned 16. I have not read the adult version, but this Young Readers’ edition was emotionally moving and answered a lot of questions that I had about the immigration issues facing undocumented citizens.

Jose is an excellent narrator (which makes sense since he was a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist for the Washington Post). He really makes you understand his frustration and feelings of helplessness at his situation. Aimed at children in grades 3 to 7, the book explains in a very understandable and personal way the issues surrounding immigration. I would recommend purchasing this to add to your middle grade biography section because this book is both a good read and brings up important current topics.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook.