Saade, Ernesto. Just Another Story: A Graphic Migration Account. Ernesto Saade, Illus. Graphic Universe, 04/2024. 216pp. Graphic. PLB $31.06. 978-1-7284-7413-7. Paper $17.99. 979-87-6562-336-7. GRADES 7–12. OUTSTANDING.
Nineteen-year-old Carlos and his mother leave El Salvador and go on a frightening journey to the United States. They are led by some helpful “coyotes,” and kidnapped by those seeking ransom, but eventually overcome the odds to find safety in California. Told in flashbacks from Carlos’s perspective to his cousin who is the author of this debut graphic memoir, the story is gripping and realistic, but not sensationalized. Using paneled cartoon artwork with dialogue balloons and short sentences, this will appeal to teens who are English learners or struggling readers, as well as those interested in this subject. The artwork uses full color to depict Carlos’s journey in the past, but just browns and black when Carlos is telling his story to his cousin.
Penny Peck—San José State University, iSchool