Crossing the Southern Border: Was it Worth the Risk?

Based on a true story, Crossing the Southern Border is a poignant exploration of the migrant experience through the eyes of Sofía, a courageous teen from Guatemala fleeing domestic abuse and poverty. She honors her family’s wishes by accompanying her sister and baby niece on a treacherous journey to the US. The novel dives deep into the challenges and aspirations of undocumented migrants, the intriguing secrecy behind the smugglers’ operation, and the unforeseen cultural consequences. Authentic stories such as this highlight the social and economic inequalities of those who dare to risk so much to have not just a better future, but a better tomorrow.
This timely narrative not only humanizes the often-misunderstood plight of migrants, but also invites readers to empathize with diverse cultural backgrounds and engage in critical discussions about immigration; it captures what it is like for brave migrants who dare to cross through countries that do not want them, often unwittingly finding themselves in worse conditions than those they left behind. It is an educational and empathetic resource that will bridge cultural divides and foster compassion in its readership.
Target audience: YA Plus Fans who appreciate an emotional survival story featuring brave and determined teens finding success. Those on the fence about illegals will learn of the dangerous conditions migrants run from. Moms with tough child separation, family conflicts, betrayal, and domestic abuse benefit from their courage. This story offers empathy as it educates those curious about coyotes and cultural identity. Advocates for social justice and the pursuit of the American Dream, along with fans who participate in book clubs, can dive deep into the 10 themes and multitude of questions listed at the end.

Sally Doran grew up in a large Irish family and has lived in the US, Spain, and Puerto Rico. Holding a BA in Spanish and an MA Teaching English as a Second Language, she is a seasoned educator with decades of experience in language teaching and cultural understanding. Highlights of her career are that she trained in Cognitive Coaching and worked for the New York State Office of Bilingual Education. As a college adjunct, Sally has taught in New York (Columbia College, Le Moyne College, Nazareth College) and Puerto Rico (InterAmerican University, University of PR, and Polytechnic University). In her spare time, she has been an active member of Hay House's Writers Community and she is a Board-Certified Hypnotist. Sally attributes her teaching, coaching, and listening skills to her deep understanding of the power of language. She currently lives and teaches in Upstate New York. To learn more, visit her website: www.sallyjdoran.com