TL;DR
Sanctuary by Paola Mendoza and Abby Sher is a gripping dystopian tale of a young girl, Vali, who must navigate a perilous journey across a xenophobic America to find safety for her family after they are targeted by Deportation Forces.
What is Sanctuary about
Set in 2032, Sanctuary paints a harrowing picture of America where all citizens are tracked and undocumented immigrants face severe challenges. Sixteen-year-old Vali, who has built a life in small-town Vermont with her family, faces a crisis when her mother’s counterfeit tracking chip malfunctions, leading to a raid by the Deportation Forces. With her mother detained, Vali and her younger brother are thrust into a desperate escape towards California, a sanctuary state being walled off from the rest of the country. The narrative emphasizes themes of family, resilience, and the harsh realities of immigration in a chillingly realistic future.
Sanctuary 5 Key Takeaways
Vali's family in Vermont faces a crisis when her mother's chip malfunctions.
The story opens with Vali's seemingly stable life in Vermont, but the malfunction of her mother's counterfeit chip leads to a life-threatening situation as the Deportation Forces descend upon their town.
After her mother is detained, Vali must flee with her brother.
With her mother captured, Vali takes on the responsibility of protecting her younger brother as they embark on a treacherous journey to reach their tía Luna in California, navigating a landscape fraught with danger.
Vali's journey is filled with obstacles and heartbreak.
As they travel, Vali and her brother encounter numerous challenges, including hostility from authorities and the constant fear of being discovered, showcasing the harsh realities faced by those in search of sanctuary.
The siblings find support from unexpected allies.
Throughout their perilous journey, Vali and her brother meet individuals who offer help and kindness, highlighting the importance of community and solidarity in times of crisis.
The story culminates in a desperate bid for safety.
As Vali and her brother reach the borders of California, they must confront the final challenges that stand between them and the safety they seek, emphasizing the stakes involved in their quest for sanctuary.
Top Sanctuary Quotes
- "In the darkest moments, hope is the light that guides us forward."
- "Sanctuary is not just a place; it's a state of being, a longing for safety and belonging."
Who should read Sanctuary?
Sanctuary is ideal for readers interested in dystopian fiction, immigration narratives, and stories that explore human resilience. It offers a poignant look at the struggles of undocumented immigrants, providing both emotional depth and social commentary that can inspire empathy and awareness.
Sanctuary Best Reviews
- "Sanctuary is a cautionary tale about a future we might want to prevent, filled with poignant moments and beautifully urgent writing." - Book Reviewer
- "The characters are deeply relatable, and their struggles invoke both heartache and hope, making this a compelling read." - Literary Critic
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Sanctuary FAQs
What are the main themes explored in Sanctuary?
Sanctuary primarily explores themes of immigration, family resilience, and the impact of xenophobia. It delves into the struggles faced by undocumented immigrants and the quest for safety in a hostile environment.
What age group is Sanctuary suitable for?
Sanctuary is suitable for young adult readers and above, as it addresses complex issues related to immigration and personal safety, making it both a thought-provoking and emotionally charged read.