Play Audiobook Sample
Just Like Us: The True Story of Four Mexican Girls Coming of Age in America Audiobook
Play Audiobook Sample
(3.02) - 806 listener ratings
Quick Stats About this Audiobook
Total Audiobook Chapters:
Longest Chapter Length:
Shortest Chapter Length:
Average Chapter Length:
Audiobooks by this Author:
Publisher Description
Just Like Us tells the story of four high school students whose parents entered this country illegally from Mexico. All four of the girls have grown up in the United States, and all four want to live the American dream, but only two have documents. As the girls attempt to make it into college, they discover that only the legal pair see a clear path forward. A coming-of-age story about girlhood and friendship, as well as the resilience required to transcend poverty, Just Like Us is also a book about identity. The girls, their families, and the critics who object to their presence allow the reader to watch one of the most complicated social issues of our times unfurl in a major American city.
Download and start listening now!
"Really interesting, and not quite what I expected. This book is not only the story of four Mexican American young women coming of age, but also an insider's reflection on the political debate surrounding immigration in the U.S. Although the author's reflections do at times seem a little forced, she does not shy away from the complexity of the issues and of the girls' individual stories."
— Dayspring (4 out of 5 stars)
Just Like Us Listener Reviews
-
" This quick read reminded me of the difficult life some immigrants can lead in this country. The author writes in detail about the murder of Denver police officer Donnie Young. Thorpe uses true story of the lives of these girls to show how difficult living and acceptance can be. "
— Angela, 2/7/2014 -
" I really love reading non-fiction books where the author is immersed for years with the subjects. This one was an eye-opening look at four high school girls of Mexican descent and their hopes of going to college. "
— Melyssa, 2/2/2014 -
" I had to read this for a class it was very good!!! "
— Michael, 1/31/2014 -
" I never finished this. I appreciated the perspective on this issue however. Whatta mess. And how peculiar some people are about working to sort this all out. "
— Lynn, 1/24/2014 -
" It dragged on a bit but I thought it gave some decent insight into what it's like being a mexican immigrant in this country. Some of the side stories were not all that well developed but the focus on the girls was interesting. "
— Marlies, 1/8/2014 -
" I really enjoyed this book as it outlined the complexity of immigration. Many questions arose in my mind as I was reading this. Here's hoping this multi-layered issue can be resolved in a manner that is best for all. "
— Marianne, 1/6/2014 -
" I challenge those who are against immigration to read and see the stand points of four illegal immigrants and not just personal views. "
— Cristina, 1/1/2014 -
" A little long and tedious at times, but very informative and eye opening. "
— Stacey, 12/21/2013 -
" A must read! No doubt about it. "
— Teresa, 12/2/2013 -
" Gave me a new perspective on the immigration issue. I'm glad I read it! "
— D3tmckenney, 11/15/2013 -
" Focusing on four young women over a period of approximately five years, Helen Thorpe provides a poignant account of Mexican immigrants, illegal AND legal, and their struggle to carve out a life in the US... a most convincing argument for passing the DREAM Act. "
— Carol, 11/15/2013 -
" An incredible book, especially since it was written by the wife of the governor of Colorado! Especially poignant given the current situation for illegal immigrants. This book gives a human face to the problem! "
— Donna, 10/5/2013 -
" Didn't read all of it but it was interesting. "
— Kristi, 9/28/2013 -
" Great non-fiction. Denver, Colo. Should be required reading for anyone wishing to discuss the immigration issues. "
— Cecilia, 1/27/2013 -
" Great book, mixing public policy with storytelling. "
— Kk, 7/22/2012 -
" Interesting. I got a little bored with the political stuff. "
— Lynn, 12/20/2011 -
" Very interesting and great fodor for discussion. I left the book not at all sure as to how I feel about the illegal immigration issues. This book definitely makes you think and you also realize that there really isn't a perfect solution. "
— Mary, 11/28/2011 -
" The single most reliable indicator of whether a child will succeed in the U S is the level of education possessed by his or her Mother. "
— Elaine, 6/3/2011 -
" Loved this book-4 best friends graduating high school in Denver (all A students) -2 are legal immigrants and 2 illegal immigrants and the challenges they face in planning their futures. "
— Deanna, 5/29/2011
About Helen Thorpe
Helen Thorpe has written magazine stories for the New York Times, the New Yorker, Texas Monthly, Westword, and 5280. She lives in Denver, Colorado. Her first book, Just Like Us, was published by Scribner in 2009. It was named one of the best books of the year by the Washington Post and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts adapted the book for the stage in 2013.
About Paula Christensen
Paula Christensen was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and raised in the suburbs of New York City. She studied acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, Michael Howard Studios in New York City, and the Antaeus Company. Christensen is a graduate of Amherst College, where she received her BA with honors in theater, dance, and anthropology. She currently resides in Los Angeles, where she teaches dance and continues to work on both stage and screen.