New York Times Bestseller • Read With Jenna Book Club Pick • Winner of the Los Angeles Times Christopher Isherwood Prize for Autobiography • Winner of the American Library Association Alex Award • A Kirkus Reviews Best Nonfiction Book of the Century
In "Solito," young poet Javier Zamora presents a heart-wrenching memoir detailing his migration from El Salvador to the United States at the tender age of nine. This story does not merely recount a journey; it embodies the hope, courage, and enduring love that define the human spirit. As Javier embarks on a three-thousand-mile trek through Guatemala and Mexico, he leafs through the tapestry of his childhood, clinging to memories of loved ones he must leave behind.
The memoir chronicles not just the hardships of his migration—perilous boat trips, relentless desert treks, encounters with authorities, and the looming threat of violence—but also the unexpected kindness he encounters along the way. It’s these moments of compassion that shine through the darkness, illuminating a path toward survival amidst adversity. Javier's story is framed within a broader context, representing countless individuals who, like him, have ventured forth in search of sanctuary, connection, and family.
"I read Solito with my heart in my throat and did not burst into tears until the last sentence. What a person, what a writer, what a book," says Emma Straub. Dave Eggers praises it as “a riveting tale of perseverance and the lengths humans will go to help each other in times of struggle." Reviewers have heralded it as one of the best books of the year from esteemed outlets like The New York Times Book Review and NPR, commending Javier’s lyrical storytelling and poignant observations.
As the journey unfolds, Javier's anticipation of reuniting with his family is juxtaposed against the harrowing reality of migration—a journey that he initially perceived would last a mere two weeks but actually transformed into two life-altering months. Overall, "Solito" is a beautifully rendered testament to the fortitude of the human spirit, capturing not only a personal odyssey but also a narrative reflective of the resilience embedded in the immigrant experience.
