Soft cover book in excellent condition

Dive into the powerful and heartfelt middle-grade novel Efrén Divided by Ernesto Cisneros — a moving story of family, resilience, and the strength found in tough times.

Seventh-grader Efrén Nava sees his Amá as a real-life superhero — his “Soperwoman” for the delicious sopes she makes and the endless ways she keeps their family going in their small California apartment. With his parents working hard to provide a better life, Efrén worries about the risks they face as undocumented immigrants. When his worst fear becomes reality and his mother is suddenly taken away, Efrén steps up in ways he never imagined: caring for his younger twin siblings, handling household responsibilities, staying on top of school, and holding onto hope that his family can be whole again. Through it all, he navigates friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of growing up amid uncertainty.

Cisneros writes with warmth, honesty, and quiet strength, blending everyday moments with deeper themes of love, sacrifice, and standing tall in the face of injustice — all told from a young boy’s relatable, heartfelt perspective.

Awards and recognition: This debut novel won the prestigious Pura Belpré Award (Children’s Author Medal, 2021) for its outstanding portrayal of the Latino cultural experience in children’s literature. It also received the Kids’ Book Choice Award (voted on by kids and teens), the Poppy Award in Middle Grade, multiple International Latino Book Awards, the SCBWI Crystal Kite Award, the Children’s Literature Council of Southern California Award for Excellence in Juvenile Fiction by a Debut Author, and more accolades including “Best Book” selections and high praise from critics.

Ideal for readers who love realistic stories with strong family bonds and emotional depth, young people interested in themes of immigration, belonging, and courage, parents and educators seeking thoughtful books for discussions on empathy and current issues, and anyone who appreciates hopeful tales of kids rising to challenges