Safely across the Río Bravo, Petra's journey continues in this follow-up to Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna (2021).It's 1913, and while the revolution rages on in Mexico, Petra and her family find temporary safety in a refugee camp on the U.S. side of the river. But as rebel soldiers recapture some areas, the camp cannot handle the influx of people escaping the violence. The displaced are given the option of returning to Mexico or staying in the country and finding work. Holding fast to her "baby diamond," the lump of coal she keeps in her pocket that reminds her of her goals, Petra decides to get a job in the States to keep her family fed until they can find her father. They head north to los corrales, a poor, predominantly Mexican neighborhood in San Antonio. Though she believes at first that being a hard, loyal worker will yield rewards, Petra quickly discovers that the American dream may not be all it is cracked up to be. She must reorient herself to her own values in order to get ahead while maintaining her integrity. The stakes feel lower in this sequel; there are fewer threats of violence, and struggles are resolved relatively easily. The novel highlights the barriers and abuses faced by many new immigrants both historically and today through short chapters that keep the pace moving toward a happy ending.Readable historical fiction with themes that resonate. (author's note) (Historical fiction. 10-14)

Gr 5–8— The indomitable Petra continues to fight for her family's survival in this continuation of Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna , though familiarity with the previous volume isn't necessary to enjoy this companion. They've outrun the federales, the military arm of Mexico's dictator, and have made it across the border. But their struggles have only just begun. The group is met with a smallpox-ridden refugee camp, poverty, and racism as 12-year-old Petra tries to find work and learn to read and write. Along the way to San Antonio, their dreams are hindered by obstacles. This is a vivid glimpse into the 1913 Mexican Revolution and its aftermath, much of which is still relevant to today's immigration and refugee crisis. While Petra is living in a very specific moment in history with a particular conflict, she also must navigate the usual coming-of-age issues that will resonate with current tweens, such as friendships, siblings, and living up to people's expectations. Her touching relationships with her grandmother and siblings will resonate in readers. Dobbs's engaging writing and the even pace of the narrative move the story forward. Petra and her family are Indigenous to Mexico. An author's note gives more context and shares how this story was inspired by Dobbs's grandmother. Though Petra's family's triumph is never in doubt, kids will be pulled in enough to follow the characters' journey. VERDICT A moving glimpse at an important historical event through the eyes of an unforgettable protagonist. Purchase for historical fiction shelves.— Shelley M. Diaz