Book details
Living Up The Street (Laurel-Leaf Books)
Description
In a prose that is so beautiful it is poetry, wesee the world of growing up and going somewherethrough the dust and heat of Fresno's industrialside and beyond: It is a boy's coming of age in thebarrio, parochial school, attending church, publicsummer school, and trying to fall out of love so hecan join in a Little League baseball team.His is a clarity that rings constantly through thewarmth and wry reality of these sometimeshumorous, sometimes tragic, always human remembrances.
Age
11-12
Text complexity
advanced
Length
176 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'Living Up The Street' provides a vivid portrayal of Mexican-American life in the Central Valley of California, offering readers a chance to gain a deeper understanding of this cultural heritage and the challenges faced by the community.
- Relatable Themes: Gary Soto's narrative is filled with universal themes such as family, poverty, friendship, and coming of age. These themes resonate with a wide audience, making the book a relatable and engaging read for people from all walks of life.
- Literary Merit: Gary Soto is an acclaimed author, and 'Living Up The Street' has received recognition for its literary quality, including the Before Columbus Foundation's American Book Award. Readers who appreciate well-crafted prose and poetic storytelling will find much to admire in Soto's writing.
- Personal Growth and Reflection: The book's collection of autobiographical narratives invites readers to reflect on their own lives and experiences. It encourages introspection and empathy, prompting readers to consider different perspectives and the impact of their own choices and circumstances.