The Crossing is a book by Ruben Martinez that tells the story of the migration of Central American immigrants to the United States. The book follows the journeys of several individuals as they travel through Mexico and into the United States, facing numerous challenges and dangers along the way.
One of the main characters in the book is a young man named Ramiro, who leaves his home in Guatemala and travels to the United States in search of a better life. Ramiro faces many difficulties on his journey, including being robbed, arrested, and held captive by smugglers. Despite these challenges, he remains determined to reach the United States and reunite with his family.
Another character in the book is a woman named Maria, who is forced to flee El Salvador after being threatened by gang members. She makes the dangerous journey to the United States with her young daughter, enduring physical and emotional hardships along the way.
The book also explores the motivations behind the decision to migrate, including poverty, violence, and lack of opportunities in Central America. Martinez writes about the complex factors that drive people to leave their homes and undertake such risky journeys, and the impact that this has on their families and communities.
Throughout the book, Martinez also delves into the history and politics of immigration in the United States, and the ways in which immigration policies have affected the lives of immigrants. He discusses the role of the U.S. government in shaping immigration policies and the consequences of these policies for immigrants and their families.
Overall, The Crossing is a powerful and thought-provoking book that provides a humanistic look at the experiences of Central American immigrants and the complex issues surrounding immigration. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the realities of immigration and the human stories behind it.