Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna

Alda P. Dobbs
39 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2021

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Book Brief

Alda P. Dobbs

Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

273

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Realistic Fiction

•

Latin American Literature
Setting

Mexico • 1910s

Theme
Family

•

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Perseverance
Topic
Military & War

•

World History
First Publication Year

2021

Publisher

Sourcebooks

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna by Alda P. Dobbs follows Petra Luna, a young girl navigating hardships during the Mexican Revolution. After her mother’s death and her father's conscription, Petra takes on the role of caretaker for her family. Facing numerous challenges, including fleeing from Federales, Petra shows resilience and determination as she strives to protect her siblings and reach safety. The source material features discussions of death, grief, war, and violence.

Adventurous

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

1,706 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna by Alda P. Dobbs offers an engaging historical tale of bravery and resilience. Reviewers praise its rich cultural setting and the strong, relatable protagonist. However, some found the pacing uneven. Overall, it's lauded for bringing a vivid part of history to life but may appeal more to younger readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna?

Fans of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories will be captivated by Alda P. Dobbs's Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna. Ideal for readers who enjoyed Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan or Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez, this book offers a gripping portrayal of courage and resilience during the Mexican Revolution.

4.3

1,706 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

A determined 12-year-old girl living in early 20th-century Mexico who takes on the role of caregiver for her younger siblings and grandmother after losing her parents to the Mexican Revolution.

Petra's six-year-old sister who assumes responsibilities beyond her years, including caring for their baby brother, while maintaining a kind and caring spirit.

The traditional grandmother of Petra, Amelia, and Luisito, who initially struggles with Petra's dreams but deeply cares for the family's wellbeing.

Petra, Amelia, and Luisito's father, taken by the Federales during the Mexican Revolution, who inspires Petra with his hope for a better life and emphasis on learning.

The deceased mother of Petra, Amelia, and Luisito, remembered for her kindness and the joy she brought to her family before her passing.

A white girl living in Mexico who becomes Petra's friend, teaching her how to spell and offering a chance to escape to America with her family.

A rebel captain who challenges societal norms and becomes a role model for Petra, encouraging her to join the revolutionary forces despite Petra's decision to stay with her family.

The baby brother of Petra and Amelia, representing hope and the family's aspiration for a safer life in America.

Book Details
Pages

273

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Realistic Fiction

•

Latin American Literature
Setting

Mexico • 1910s

Theme
Family

•

Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Perseverance
Topic
Military & War

•

World History
First Publication Year

2021

Publisher

Sourcebooks

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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