 | Hurdles in the dark Author: Gonzalez, Elvira K. | |
| Price: $16.49 | ||
Summary:
A YA memoir about survival and strength by Elvira Gonzalez, a Mexican-American track star who found freedom from poverty and violence by training to become one of the top athletes in the U.S.
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: UG Reading Level: 4.70 Points: 12.0 Quiz: 552871 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (03/15/24)
Booklist (04/15/24)
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (A) (00/06/24)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 04/15/2024 In an honest and uncensored narrative, Gonzalez provides a look at her childhood during a time when she was extremely scared and vulnerable. She discusses how a drug cartel kidnapped her mother and demanded a ransom. The book also includes her time in one of the worst juvenile detention centers in Texas, which eventually led to her becoming a strong hurdle and sprint competitor in state and national championships. This book provides an intimate look at her life and how, through hard work, determination, and grit, she overcame and survived. The book includes themes that are far too common in young adults' lives, especially those in sports: predatory adults, sexual misconduct and abuse, and manipulation. This book can be viewed as a stepping stone for young adults on a path to finding their voice and speaking out against sexual abuse. The author writes about herself in a smooth, approachable style, which makes this memoir read like a novel instead of a traditional biography. Strongly recommended for public and high-school libraries. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.
