This storyline basically followed the concept of Trump reaching levels of full on dictatorship. I didn't find this dystopian world totally unbelievable (except they'd probably use phones rather than an actual microchip).  In fact, it was neat how they took this concept and made it into something creative. It reminded me a lot of how people own fake IDs and the like. I also enjoyed the diversity of characters and how that was used-especially because I enjoy Hispanic culture.
My real issue with the plot was that at times it was unrealistic...not because of the premise, but the way that the main character was able to survive. One example was when she

received $10,000 from Sister Lottie for the coyote...

. I hate to say it, but why would she give so much to a total stranger? Especially with everyone else there at that. Maybe if the mother was close friends with her, but still. Even in general, while there are a lot of undocumented immigrants, it seemed unrealistic that there would be SO many living just in their town...I mean her best friend, the store owner, the soccer coach, and them? That's a big group of people. I feel like it would've been more interesting had it been more rare or secretive.  
The plot at times was corny, if not predictable. The

deaths of many of the characters

was predictable, maybe because of the scenario but also it just seemed set up to happen. The

love story with Malakas and Val

was an example of this. It took place over MAYBE a week or two, and honestly if I was starving and that close to death I wouldn't even be thinking of that. Maybe when they got to their destination, but not still travelling. 
I think this book was great, but it had a lot more potential to be greater.

 while dystopian is the closest genre for this book, it feels more like holding up and looking glass into the future and the present at the same time. The echoes of Trump's and other republican leaders' rhetoric live on these pages, illustrating that our country is so close to mimicking the actions taken in this book and in some cases have already done. Fear, sadness, and anger crept into my body as I listened to this audiobook. The trauma that Vali and Ernie experience, made my heartbreak for them. This story is so much more than just another dystopian novel, it is about strength and resilience but also a cautionary tale of our potential future if we do not hold our government and leaders accountable for their language and action against immigration and undocumented people. 

This is a must-read in my humble opinion. 

 

This is one of those books that just sticks with you. Heart and soul.