The Great Divide by Cristina Henríquez
About the book club: Jenna Bush Hager — current co-host of Today with Hoda & Jenna — independently chooses a book each month that she personally loves. (“Jenna was not paid to mention these items and is unaffiliated with the authors and publishers“)
What Jenna said about the book: “We are ringing in year 5 (!!) of Read With Jenna with a DOUBLE book club pick for March! Get ready…this month we are pairing the beautiful new novel, “The Great Divide” by Cristina Henriquez with “The House on Mango Street,” by Sandra Cisneros in honor of its 40th anniversary!
“The Great Divide” takes place in the early 20th century at the Panama Canal, where Omar, a young laborer, dreams of a better future while enduring the harsh realities of construction work. His story intersects with Ada, a spirited teenager from Barbados, and John Oswald, a dedicated scientist fighting malaria. Together, they become entwined in a clandestine network, revealing the deep connections, sacrifices, and hopes of those drawn to the monumental project.
“The House on Mango Street” is a coming-of-age novel that follows a young Latina girl named Esperanza as she grows up in Chicago. Through a series of vignettes, Esperanza reflects on her family, friends, and community, while grappling with issues of identity, belonging, and the desire for a better life.
These novels are complementary tales of ambition, identity, and resilience. “The Great Divide” is available in stores tomorrow, and available for preorder now! And look out for a new copy of “The House on Mango Street” with our sticker on it, or pick up your pre-loved one! Come read with us!”
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