I read Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna by Alda P. Dobbs in a little under two days - I literally could not put it down! Set during the Mexican Revolution, 12 year old Petra Luna has lost her mother to death and her father to ruthless soldiers, and does what she can to make sure her grandmother, sister, and brother are taken care of. When government soldiers raid their town once again, they set out on foot to find safety somewhere, anywhere. They make their way north, making friends along the way, seeing things, and living things that no children should ever have to experience, until they make it to the US border. 

This book is marketed as children’s fiction/middle grade, but honestly it can be read by anyone. I will be reading this with my kids this year so they can learn a little more about the history of the country their father comes from, and I know that they will really enjoy it. As the book is based on real historical events (with fictional characters), I think that anyone interested in learning more about Mexican history would like it. 

Petra is a wonderful character, too old for her age due to everything she has endured, but also still keeps her childhood hopes and dreams alive despite everything. Highly recommended read!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.