American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins follows Lydia Quixano Pérez and her son Luca as they flee from a violent cartel after their family is massacred in Acapulco, encountering various migrants and dangers on their journey to the United States. The book includes graphic depictions of violence and sexual assault.

Reviews of American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins reveal a polarized response. Positives include its gripping narrative and spotlight on migrant struggles, evoking empathy. Criticisms focus on stereotypical portrayals and questions of cultural appropriation. While some appreciate its intent, others challenge its authenticity and representation.

A reader who would enjoy Jeanine Cummins' American Dirt is someone captivated by gripping page-turners and harrowing migration stories. Fans of Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner and John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath will find this book equally compelling due to its exploration of human resilience and sociopolitical struggles.

Suspenseful / Emotional / Dark / Challenging / Unnerving

- American Dirt was announced as an Oprah's Book Club selection shortly after its publication, which significantly boosted its visibility and sales.
- The novel sparked an intense and widespread debate about cultural representation, with critics and readers discussing the author's background and the portrayal of Mexican immigrants.
- Jeanine Cummins spent extensive time researching for American Dirt, including traveling to Mexico to gain a deeper understanding of the migrant experience.

**Lydia Quixano Pérez**  
Lydia is the 32-year-old protagonist of the novel *Lydia*. She is a bookstore owner, wife to Sebastián, and mother to Luca. Her life takes a drastic turn when her family is targeted by a cartel.

**Sebastián Pérez Delgado**  
Sebastián is Lydia's husband, a principled journalist who is murdered after publishing an exposé on Javier, a cartel leader. He is dedicated to his family and his work, prioritizing truth and free press.

**Luca Mateo Pérez Quixano**  
Luca is the young son of Lydia and Sebastián. At eight years old, he possesses remarkable geography skills and maturity beyond his years. He is a constant source of support for his mother during their perilous journey.

**Javier Crespo Fuentes**  
Javier, also known as The Owl, is the antagonist of *Lydia*. He is the leader of the Los Jardineros cartel, charming and erudite, but also ruthless and violent.

**Lorenzo**  
Lorenzo is a 17-year-old sicario for Los Jardineros. He has a complex relationship with Lydia and Luca, showcasing both menace and a desire to leave the cartel behind.

**Rebeca and Soledad**  
Rebeca and Soledad are Ch’orti sisters from Honduras. They are brave and resourceful, forming a bond with Lydia and Luca as they navigate their dangerous journey.

**Beto**  
Beto is a 10-year-old deportee from Tijuana, who displays generosity and a desire to help the group. He shares Luca’s maturity and knowledge, particularly regarding immigration matters.

**Juan Pedro (El Chacal)**  
Juan Pedro, known as El Chacal, is a seasoned and reputable coyote. He is committed to safely guiding migrants across the desert and grapples with the challenges posed by cartels.

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Chapters 1-3

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Chapter 4 American Dirt Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-7

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Chapter 8 American Dirt Chapter 8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

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Chapter 13 American Dirt Chapter 13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-18

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Chapters 19-22

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Chapters 23-25

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Chapters 26-29

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Chapter 30-Epilogue

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