The River Between Hearts by

What worked:

The book addresses two major social issues: death and immigration. Readers will see Rill go through the different emotions of grieving such as denial, anger, sadness, and acceptance. She can’t accept her father’s drowning last year, and she fully expects he’ll return sometime soon. She avoids dealing with his death and only recently returns to Fort Kruse, the treehouse he built in the woods. Rill’s surprised to find someone living there and discovers Petra, the daughter of Mexican illegal immigrants who are deported. Rill’s curiosity and desire to help the girl will help young readers learn about the problems and concerns surrounding illegal immigration and death.

The story goes a step further and shares information about the Mexican culture and what motivates the people to come to this country illegally. Petra loves to sing and shares many of the songs she’s grown up with. Rill enjoys them and the girls sometimes change the words to fit things that are happening in their lives. Petra’s family left their home in Mexico because of crime and threats of violence. Even pastors won’t come to the town due to threats from the criminals. Despite her anguish, Petra becomes valuable support with Rill’s grieving, and Rill supports her as she tries to reunite with her family.

The book explores the dynamics of Rill’s uncommon family situation, as she lives on the premises of the family business. Her mother is present and caring, while Rill’s older brother finds ways to irritate her. The kids deal with the father’s death in their own ways, but they both have unresolved issues. The employees of Kruse Whitewater Adventures act as surrogate parents too, especially Joyce, the arm-wrestling, mechanic, office manager. Since she’s usually around the office, she’s the one doing most of the supervising of Rill’s activities. Rill wears a whistle around her neck, and any of her “parents” will come running if they hear it.

What didn’t work as well:

The tone of the story is a little sad and serious, as the two main characters are dealing with loss. The two girls have fun, but Rill’s anger is always on the brink of erupting. The emotions and tone are to be expected since they’re not light-hearted issues. The overall story effectively explores the journeys of overcoming Rill’s and Petra’s tragic problems.

The Final Verdict:

The many emotions of loss. Death and loss aren’t easy, and the author tenderly shares the turmoil experienced by those dealing with them. I can’t say everything turns out happily ever after, but the book presents a passionate story of friendship and love. I recommend you give it a shot.