La Linea: Be the Change

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   La Linea is a quick read; one that is worthwhile. I hope a good number of people will take the time to read this book, especially those who believe “illegal” immigrants are terrible people. Miguel and Elena’s immigrant journey reflects recent and ongoing sociopolitical conditions. More importantly, they add faces and human emotions related to current events. Students can use this novel as a jumping-off point for the investigation of true immigration stories. They can achieve a better understanding of what motivates people to immigrate by researching their own family histories (send parent request letter home first*), or by comparing the characters’ experiences with that of other Latino and non-Latino settlers of the Americas. I encourage future educators to consider tying in either the whole book or segments of the story into an important lesson on immigration. 

   When it comes down to it, people are people, and we need to take care of one another no matter our country of origin, belief system, or language. Miguel had to go through some tough, life experiences; from getting chased by the border guards, getting betrayed by his smuggler, and almost losing his sister Miguel's experiences truly molded him into a better person. I respect the authoritative voice behind this novel. Ann Jaramillo is an ESL instructor with many years’ exposure to the true, and often harrowing, stories of border crossings by Mexicans and Central Americans. Her depiction of the mechanics involved is well informed. She describes life before and during the flight to the United States effectively, and highlights the poverty and bleak opportunities on the Mexican side with convincing detail, within age-appropriate limits.

   This is a good text for enhancing Spanish vocabulary. A word wall of Spanish words could be beneficial to students. It can also be used to increase awareness of rural Mexican customs. A brief homework assignment could be sent home, for students to research the customs of a foreign country and compare it to that of American customs. HIghlighting themes and tones throughout the story, such as desperation, generosity, bravery, and maturity are beneficial to readers of all ages. Professor Thomas made a good point that the world has lacked generosity for such a long time now. If parents are lacking to teach this concept of kindness at home, then we, as educators, need to make a difference; be the change. 


https://josephranseth.com/gandhi-didnt-say-be-the-change-you-want-to-see-in-the-world/

Comments

  1. Callum CarrNovember 17, 2020 at 9:27 AM

    I really liked this post, Logan. I have two favorite parts: the first was when you said Miguel and Elena's story "add faces and human emotions related to current events." I think that is something we don't talk often enough about when it comes to issues in the news. I think to try and get their point across pundits and their guests will reduce people to numbers to save time, and because most people can easily understand quick facts than they can, or are willing to, a person's story. My other favorite part was at the end, when you said "If parents are lacking to teach this concept of kindness at home, then we, as educators, need to make a difference; be the change." And I also love the graphic you included.

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  2. Candace BeebeNovember 18, 2020 at 10:12 AM

    Logan, I like how you want to help everyone relate to this book by having students research how their own families got to this country. I think that is a really cool idea! Students need to more about their own histories but it would also help students empathize with people of other backgrounds. I also like that you connected this book to teaching Spanish. You’re right, it would make a great “word wall” for students to put Spanish vocabulary into context. I certainly enjoyed that aspect of the book.

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  3. A'Keriah PraylowNovember 18, 2020 at 6:52 PM

    Your comment of "add faces and human emotions related to current events" is POWERFUL. Many politicians make decisions without thinking of the emotional impact that immigration laws and policies have on people. This novel can be a great resource to educate students and create empathy towards immigrants. Great post Logan.

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