Author Archives: Madison W.

Efrén Divided by Ernesto Cisneros

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“Nos quisieron enterran pero no sabían que éramos semillas” – They tried to bury us but they didn’t know we were seeds

This famous proverb is the principle of the novel Efrén Divided. Efrén Divided is a story that focuses on the importance of family, friends, and a home. Echoing the experiences of thousands of Mexican-American children, Efrén is faced with the tragedy of his mother’s deportation. As the oldest sibling, he must take care of his siblings while his dad works to bring his mom back home. Efrén must learn how to be a leader, both in his middle school and in his family. Throughout his journey, he not only discovers his power to lead but the importance of teamwork.

This book has taught me multiple important lessons:

  • It’s ok to rely on people when you’re struggling
  • You have the power to change your life for the better
  • Family never gets left behind
  • Hard work will always pay off

In the novel, Ernesto Cisneros artfully describes the heartrending experience of having a family member taken from you. Balancing the struggles of school, his siblings, and his community, Efrén transforms from an average 12-year-old to a formidable “Soperboy”. Efrén Divided will make you laugh, cry, and crave home-cooked Sopes.

Efrén Divided by Ernesto Cisneros is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.

A Wind in the Door – The Sequel to A Wrinkle in Time

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When I was younger and first discovering the beauty of classical literature, I fell in love with the famous A Wrinkle in Time, written by Madeleine L’Engle in 1960. Her writing artfully connects the fantastical and harshly realistic, as Meg Murry and her little brother Charles Wallace face extraordinary beings and situations to save those dear to them.

Little did I know after reading this masterpiece, that I would find five more beautifully written books accompanying it. The Time Quintet is one of the best book series I have ever read by far.

The Time Quintet Consists of:

  1. A Wrinkle in Time
  2. A Wind in the Door
  3. A Swiftly Tilting Planet
  4. Many Waters
  5. An Acceptable Time

My favorite out of these books though, is definitely A Wind in The Door. The novel continues to follow Meg and the Murray family, as her parents conduct risky and ingenious experiments. The genius family is distraught as they’re faced with one thing they might not be able to fix: a hereditary disease. In order to secure Charles Wallace’s future, Meg must assemble with creatures beyond imagination to defeat “those who hate”. Throughout this journey to save her brother, Meg must not only deal with real monsters but also find the good in someone who seems to be anything but good.

If you loved A Wrinkle in Time, enjoy fantasy or Sci-Fi, or desire to read a beautiful, empathetic story and add it to your repertoire: I highly recommend A Wind in The Door by Madeleine L’Engle.

A Wind in the Door by Madeleine L’Engle is available for checkout from the Mission Viejo Library. It can also be downloaded for free from Libby.

Misery, by Stephen King

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With Halloween just around the corner, it would be a waste not to introduce one of the best thriller novels I’ve ever read. As many know, Stephen King is one of America’s most influential and creative authors to date when it comes to creating mystery, terror, and suspense. His book Misery is no stranger to this trend.

One of my favorite elements of Misery is its point of view. The story is told by the main character Paul Sheldon, a famous author. Since the main character and narrator of the novel is the author himself, it allows for his point of view to be very dynamic and descriptive, without foreshadowing, which increases the anticipation felt throughout the book.

I also love Paul’s point of view because it is told not only with his thoughts and dialogue but also with his dreams and visions of the novels he writes within the book.

The best part of the book by far though, which makes it eerily appropriate for the season is the antagonist of the book: Anne Wilkes. Anne is Paul’s biggest fan. She changes from being in complete aue of him to having complete control over him.

Anne, like any menace, is terrifying and conniving, but unlike many villains I’ve read about, she’s also naive. King’s writing almost makes you feel sympathetic for her at times. The flexibility of her character allows for a number of shocking plot twists you’ll never anticipate.

Overall, Misery is one of the perfect books to read in preparation for the spooky season, as it will chill you to the bone with suspense and vivid, grisly imagery.

Misery by Stephen King is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.

Beyond The Break by Heather Buchta

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One of my favorite reads this summer was Beyond The Break by Heather Buchta. Beyond The Break focuses on three of my favorite things: love, God, and the beach.

The novel follows 16-year-old Lovette as she navigates her junior year of high school in sunny Los Angeles. It’s evident that Lovette has been through a multitude of struggles in her life, but her love of the Beach and the Bible get her through it. But there’s one issue: she’s not allowed to go in the water. Ever. Over time through new challenges and a newfound love, she learns to be less uptight and let go, learning about her desires and how she wants to live her life according to her rules.

Although a bit cliché, I found this romance incredibly fun and refreshing. Buchta does a wonderful job portraying each character’s unique voice and struggles authentically. The main characters’ chemistry is unmatched, as they share their passions and get to know each other throughout the book.

I’d recommend this book to people who enjoy:

  • Surfing
  • Religion
  • The friends-to-lovers trope
  • Coming-of-age stories

One quote that I feel encapsulates the tone of the book is found on page 6, reading;

“Waves. I’m thinking of waves the first time I meet him.”

Beyond The Break, is a heartfelt coming-of-age story, that will tug at your heartstrings and make you jump for joy over the seemingly smallest things. This ideal summer book will leave you wanting more. Even if you hate the water, believe me; it’ll make you want to go for a swim.

Beyond the Break by Heather Buchta is available to download for free from Libby.