American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

The book described is "American Dirt" by Jeanine Cummins. It tells the gripping story of Lydia Quixano Pérez, a bookstore owner in Acapulco, Mexico, whose life is upended when her journalist husband publishes an exposé on Javier, the leader of a local drug cartel. This action forces Lydia and her young son, Luca, to flee their comfortable life as they become targets of the cartel's vengeance.

As they embark on a perilous journey north towards the United States, Lydia and Luca join the ranks of migrants riding on top of freight trains known as "la bestia." Along the way, they encounter other migrants fleeing violence and seeking a better life, while facing dangers and hardships that test their resilience and hope.

"American Dirt" has been praised for its intense portrayal of the migrant experience, its exploration of themes such as family, survival, and the pursuit of safety and opportunity. It has sparked significant discussion and debate, particularly regarding representation and authenticity in literature.

The book has received acclaim from authors like Stephen King and Sandra Cisneros, and was an Oprah's Book Club selection and a number-one New York Times bestseller. Yareli Arizmendi's narration in the audiobook version has been particularly noted for its emotional depth and authenticity, bringing Lydia's voice vividly to life.

Overall, "American Dirt" is recognized as a powerful and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the challenges faced by migrants while humanizing their stories with empathy and compassion.