Caravan to the North: Misael’s Long Walk

The novel in verse is a powerful first-person account of Misael Martínez, a Salvadoran boy whose family joins the caravan heading north to the United States. We learn about the reasons why people leave, the kindness of those along the way, and the tear gas, hateful demonstrations, force, and fear that descend on them once they arrive in Tijuana. The book ends with Misael dreaming of El Salvador.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: Groundwood Books Ltd ,Canada

A young boy named Misael embarks on a perilous journey from his beloved homeland of El Salvador to the US border in a caravan. The novel in verse, written from the first-person perspective of Misael, provides a powerful account of his experiences.

We delve into the various motivations behind people's decision to leave, exploring the hope that fuels their journey as well as the profound sadness of leaving home. The book vividly depicts the arduousness and length of the trip, as well as the kindness extended by those encountered along the way.

Upon reaching Tijuana, Misael and his fellow caravan members initially feel a sense of relief, believing they have achieved their goal of entering the United States. However, their hopes are quickly dashed as tear gas, hateful demonstrations, force, and fear descend upon them. The border is closed, trapping them in a desperate situation.

The book concludes with Misael dreaming of his homeland, El Salvador. Jorge Argueta, the award-winning author of "Somos como las nubes / We Are Like the Clouds," skillfully weaves a beautiful and timely story in simple but poetic verse. Manuel Monroy, the talented illustrator, brings Misael's journey to life with captivating illustrations. An author's note provides additional context, while a map showcasing the caravan's route adds depth to the narrative.

This book aligns with the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts, specifically CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.3, which encourages students to describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details from the text. Through Misael's eyes, readers gain a profound understanding of the challenges and hardships faced by migrants on their journey to a better life.

Weight: 170g
Dimension: 139 x 214 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781773067407