Until I Find Julian

Gr 4–7—When his brother, Julian, stops contacting his family in Mexico, Matteo becomes convinced that something is wrong and he determines to go to the United States to find him. During his attempts to cross the border, he meets Angel, a mysterious girl who has repeatedly crossed the border herself. Angel takes pity on Matteo and helps him get to his brother's last-known location. Border cops, drowning, thieves, fire, and strangers with ulterior motives are but a few of the dangers that lurk around every corner for the duo, but Matteo is determined to find Julian. Will he succeed? Who is Angel? What happened to Julian? The well-known and respected author easily brings Matteo's world to life and ensnares readers with her strongly developed plot and characters. The writing style is unique and keeps up a good pace. Transitions between the past and present are smooth and will keep readers' attention. The imagery Giff employs is vivid and helps readers to step into Matteo's shoes.