A review by blogginboutbooks
Land of the Cranes by Aida Salazar

4.0

Despite its ugly subject matter, this is a beautifully-written verse novel. It's lyrical and lovely, suffused as it is with interesting mythology, vivid imagery, and warm depictions of family life. Grim honesty also defines this story as it describes a young girl's experience being incarcerated at a detainment facility in a way that is stark, searing, and absolutely gut-wrenching. It's impossible to read THE LAND OF THE CRANES and NOT be moved. While the book is heartbreaking it is, ultimately, a hopeful novel. Betita is able to change her own world by telling her story—hopefully, it will spur us all to be better, act bolder, and love harder. I'd give THE LAND OF THE CRANES 4 1/2 stars if I could.