Efren Divided

Winner of the Pura Belpre Award!

"We need books to break open our hearts, so that we might feel more deeply, so that we might be more human in these unkind times. This is a book doing work of the spirit in a time of darkness." —Sandra Cisneros, author of The House on Mango Street

Efren Nava's Ama is his Superwoman—or Soperwoman, named after the delicious Mexican sopes his mother often prepares. Both Ama and Apa work hard all day to provide for the family, making sure Efren and his younger siblings Max and Mia feel safe and loved.

But Efren worries about his parents; although he's American-born, his parents are undocumented. His worst nightmare comes true one day when Ama doesn't return from work and is deported across the border to Tijuana, Mexico.

Now more than ever, Efren must channel his inner Soperboy to help take care of and try to reunite his family.

A glossary of Spanish words is included in the back of the book.

This powerful and timely coming of age story is about one boy holding his family together when everything is falling apart.

• A Story of Family Separation: When Efren's mother is suddenly deported, his world is turned upside down. He must figure out how to care for his younger siblings, Max and Mia, while his dad works around the clock.
• Becoming Soperboy: Efren always saw his Ama as a superhero. Now, he must find his own inner strength and become Soperboy to keep his family's hope alive.
• Social Justice for Young Readers: An honest and important look at the real-world challenges faced by undocumented immigrants and mixed-status families, written with deep empathy and hope.
• Accessible & Bilingual: Spanish is woven naturally into the dialogue, reflecting an authentic voice. A glossary is included to help young readers learn.