Santiago’s Road Home

Recommended Ages: 8-12

Written by Alexandra Diaz.

In this poignant and timely novel by award-winning author Alexandra Diaz, a young boy named Santiago finds himself detained by ICE while crossing the border from Mexico to the United States. As he lies shivering on a creaky bed, memories of his life flash through his mind—some he cherishes and others he wishes to forget. 

With only a few coins meant for a bus fare back to his abusive grandmother's house, Santiago is determined not to return; he feels invisible and unmissed. Everything changes when he meets María Dolores, a kind and nurturing woman, and her young daughter, Alegría. They offer him a chance to join them on a journey to el otro lado—the United States. 

With little more than backpacks filled with water and food, the trio sets off, but they quickly learn that their journey through Mexico to the border is just the beginning. Together, they must navigate challenges and learn to trust one another, as Santiago grapples with the complexities of companionship and the uncertain future that lies ahead.