Illegal

by Eoin Colfer and Andrew Donkin

[Beth C.]

I was very excited to read this book, and when it was chosen as a Powell's Pick, that increased my excitement. I read it as soon as I could get my hands on a copy, and...I have mixed feelings.

I think it's an important story, particularly considering the current atmosphere around the word "illegal" as applied to any group of people. I think that it will be an important piece in having conversations - particularly with young people - around this heated topic. However, I have reservations.

The story is a compilation of possibilities. It's not based on one actual story of any one individual. Not necessarily a problem in and of itself, however the ending (no spoilers) felt...convenient. Parts of the book are somewhat dark, as befits the experiences of many of those making such a harrowing and perilous journey. The end, though, felt a little too...contrived? Convenient?

The other concern I have with this book is that I felt like it was...not enough? Like the chance to truly make a more powerful statement regarding the bias shown to these people was wasted. The word "illegal" in the terms of this story is so powerful, and so loaded, that the expectation I had going in was not met. So many of these people, who experience hardships that few Americans have ever known, become model citizens. They are productive, and they give back to their new country - and to the people within it - in ways that are often not truly recognized. I guess I wish the story had done more to show that aspect?

Having said that - I still believe that this book is valuable it its way. I know I intend to ask my children to read it, then have a conversation with them afterwards. It should be on library shelves, bookshelves, and anywhere else people might pick up a copy. Because in the end, even the barest education that these people are HUMAN BEINGS - not animals, not some horrific plague sent to bother everyone else - is (unfortunately) a necessary reminder to us all.