Parents' Guide to

To The Other Side

By Monica Encarnacion, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Powerful, resilient, often scary, tale of child migration.

Book Erika Meza Picture Book 2023
To the Other Side book cover: Illustration of big sister and little brother wearing colorful Mexican masks that look like a rabbit and a jaguar

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What's the Story?

ON THE OTHER SIDE begins when a young boy and his older sister leave home to play a game. To win, they must travel across endless lands together and make it to the finish line. "The rules of the game are simple," the big sister explains. "Avoid monsters." "Don't get caught." "And keep moving." Meza's emotionally rich book offers a powerful perspective from the viewpoint of those most impacted by difficult situations at the United States border with Mexico: migrant kids. The brother and sister duo head out on a perilous journey, navigating dangers and uncertainties as they seek a better life, each imagining what might be waiting for them across the border. The journey is hard, and there are monsters lurking in the shadows but Meza's writing and illustrations reveal the resilience of these young travelers, dispelling stereotypes and fostering empathy. In her author's note at the end of the book, Meza talks about her own experiences as a child migrant, what inspired her to write this book, and shares touching personal stories of other migrant kids, giving them a voice through her book.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

This poignant, often scary story emphasizes the importance of understanding the immigrant experience. To The Other Side offers an impactful narrative that humanizes the often-overlooked plight of migrant kids. Meza's captivating work of art engages young readers with its emotionally resonant storytelling and sensitively addresses the challenges faced by immigrant families. While the book's handling of immigration may be emotionally charged for younger kids, it remains essential for conveying the realities of the immigrant experience. This compassionate and insightful picture book, beautifully illustrated in black and white with vibrant splashes of red, yellow, orange, and violet, encourages empathy for those navigating similar challenges and makes this a significant addition to children's literature addressing the topic of immigration. Beautiful and whimsical, this unique and timely picture book fosters empathy and appreciation for diversity encouraging meaningful conversations about the immigrant experience and the importance of welcoming those seeking a better life.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how the main characters in To The Other Side might be feeling as they try to win the game. How did the brother and sister stick together? How did they help each other face the difficult challenges? What did they imagine would be waiting for them on the other side of the border?

  • What makes the big sister strong and brave? How does she demonstrate courage, perseverance, and compassion?

  • Do you find the characters relatable? Have you ever felt scared yet hopeful? Have you or someone else you know gone through a difficult time when they needed help from others? How did they make it through?

Book Details

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