Lost Children Archive Book Summary

In 'Lost Children Archive', Valeria Luiselli masterfully interweaves the story of a family road trip with the harrowing plight of migrant children at the U.S.-Mexico border. As the family's dynamics unravel amidst their journey, the narrative delves into themes of loss, displacement, and the quest for belonging. With lyrical prose and a profound exploration of how stories shape reality, the novel challenges readers to confront the often-ignored tragedies of immigration. Luiselli's unique structure, blending intimate personal experiences with the broader socio-political landscape, keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Will the family find their destination, or will the echoes of lost children haunt them forever?

By Valeria Luiselli

Published: 2020

""We have become so skilled at narrating the world, we forget that the stories we tell can shape reality itself.""

Lost Children ArchiveBook binding

Start Listening to Book Summary

0:000:00

Book Review of Lost Children Archive

NEW YORK TIMES 10 BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR • “An epic road trip [that also] captures the unruly intimacies of marriage and parenthood ... This is a novel that daylights our common humanity, and challenges us to reconcile our differences.” —The Washington Post In Valeria Luiselli’s fiercely imaginative follow-up to the American Book Award-winning Tell Me How It Ends, an artist couple set out with their two children on a road trip from New York to Arizona in the heat of summer. As the family travels west, the bonds between them begin to fray: a fracture is growing between the parents, one the children can almost feel beneath their feet. Through ephemera such as songs, maps and a Polaroid camera, the children try to make sense of both their family’s crisis and the larger one engulfing the news: the stories of thousands of kids trying to cross the southwestern border into the United States but getting detained—or lost in the desert along the way. A breath-taking feat of literary virtuosity, Lost Children Archive is timely, compassionate, subtly hilarious, and formally inventive—a powerful, urgent story about what it is to be human in an inhuman world.

Book Overview of Lost Children Archive

About the Book Author

V

Valeria Luiselli

Valeria Luiselli is a Mexican author renowned for her innovative narrative style and exploration of themes such as migration, identity, and the complexities of modern life. Her notable works include 'Los ingrávidos' ('The Weight of Our Souls'), 'Tell Me How It Ends: An Essay in Forty Questions,' and 'The Lost Children Archive,' which received critical acclaim for its poignant storytelling and rich, multilayered narratives. Luiselli's writing often blends fiction with non-fiction, employing a unique voice that challenges traditional narrative structures and invites readers to engage with pressing social issues. She has received numerous awards for her work, including the Los Angeles Times Book Prize and the American Academy of Arts and Letters Metcalf Award.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Valeria Luiselli
Published
February 2020
Publisher
Vintage
ISBN
0525436464
Language
English
Pages
406
Genres
Contemporary FictionSocial CommentaryLiteratureFiction

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

AmericanahBook binding

Americanah Book Summary

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.

Americanah
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
The General Theory of Employment, Interest and MoneyBook binding

The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money Book Summary

In 'The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money,' John Maynard Keynes challenges the classical economics that dominated before the Great Depression. He introduces revolutionary ideas about how government intervention can stabilize economies and control unemployment. Through compelling arguments, he dissects the causes of economic fluctuations and proposes innovative solutions. Keynes's work not only reshapes the understanding of macroeconomics but also ignites debates that resonate even today. Are his insights the key to unlocking a prosperous economic future or just a theory lost in complexity?

The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money
John Maynard Keynes
PerfumesBook binding

Perfumes Book Summary

In 'Perfumes', Luca Turin takes readers on an aromatic journey through the fascinating world of fragrance. He blends science, history, and sensory experience to reveal the hidden complexities of perfume creation and appreciation. Turin's unique perspective elevates scent from mere luxury to an art form, inviting readers to reconsider their relationship with fragrance. With vivid descriptions and insightful anecdotes, he explores the emotional and cultural significance of perfumes across different societies. This is not just a book for fragrance lovers; it's an enchanting exploration that will intrigue anyone curious about the invisible artistry that enhances our lives.

Perfumes
Luca Turin
The Referral EngineBook binding

The Referral Engine Book Summary

In 'The Referral Engine', John Jantsch reveals the secret to transforming your business through the power of referrals. He provides actionable strategies that turn satisfied customers into enthusiastic advocates. By understanding the psychology behind referrals, readers learn how to create a system that generates a steady stream of new clients. This book is not just about getting recommendations; it's about building relationships that drive sustainable growth. Dive in to discover how to leverage the influence of others to supercharge your success!

The Referral Engine
John Jantsch
The Elements of StyleBook binding

The Elements of Style Book Summary

"The Elements of Style" by William Strunk is a timeless guide to the principles of English style and composition. It distills the essence of clear writing into simple rules and practical advice, making it an essential read for writers at all levels. Strunk's mantra of 'omit needless words' challenges readers to refine their prose and embrace brevity. With its concise format and witty insights, this book transforms the often daunting task of writing into an enjoyable craft. Discover how mastering these fundamental elements can elevate your writing and captivate your audience!

The Elements of Style
William Strunk
White TeethBook binding

White Teeth Book Summary

In 'White Teeth', Zadie Smith weaves a vibrant tapestry of post-colonial London through the intertwining lives of two families. As secrets and histories unfold, themes of immigration, identity, and cultural conflict emerge, painting a rich portrait of modern life. The tale is both humorous and poignant, exploring the complexities of family heritage and the search for belonging. With unforgettable characters and a sharp social commentary, Smith invites readers to question what truly connects us. Can the past ever be fully reconciled with the present, or does it remain a haunting specter?

White Teeth
Zadie Smith
The Story of BabarBook binding

The Story of Babar Book Summary

In 'The Story of Babar' by Jean De Brunhoff, we are introduced to a charming young elephant who embarks on an extraordinary adventure after the tragic loss of his mother. Babar escapes the jungle and discovers the enchanting world of humans, where he learns about elegance and civility. With a little guidance, he adopts human ways and returns to his homeland to lead his fellow elephants with wisdom and grace. This whimsical tale explores themes of growth, resilience, and the importance of staying true to one's roots. Will Babar successfully bridge the gap between two worlds, or will he lose touch with his elephant heritage?

The Story of Babar
Jean De Brunhoff
Strangers on a TrainBook binding

Strangers on a Train Book Summary

When two strangers meet on a train, a casual conversation spirals into a chilling pact to commit murder. Guy Haines, a troubled architect, finds himself drawn into the twisted mind of Charles Bruno, a charismatic yet sinister stranger. As the lines between friendship and obsession blur, Guy is forced to confront his moral boundaries and the consequences of his choices. Highsmith masterfully explores themes of guilt, chance, and the dark side of human nature. Will Guy manage to escape the web of intrigue, or is he destined to become a pawn in Bruno's deadly game?

Strangers on a Train
Patricia Highsmith

Showing 8 of 26 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Similar Book Recommendations →

Chris Dixon's Book Recommendations

Chris Dixon's Book Recommendations

Chris Dixon is a notable venture capitalist and technology entrepreneur, best known for his influential role as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, where he leads investments in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Before joining the firm, Dixon co-founded two startups: SiteAdvisor, a web security company acquired by McAfee, and Hunch, a recommendation engine acquired by eBay. In addition to his investment career, Dixon is a prolific writer and thought leader on technology and innovation, contributing insightful essays and articles to various platforms such as his personal blog and Medium. His writings often explore the future of technology, the internet, and the impact of blockchain, making significant contributions to contemporary tech literature. Dixon's work has earned him recognition as a visionary in both the tech and literary worlds.

Technology and FutureInspiring ReadsCreativity and Innovation
John Green's Book Recommendations

John Green's Book Recommendations

John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.

Memoirs and BiographiesInspiring ReadsEducation
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

PoliticsMemoirs and BiographiesSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
Oprah Winfrey's Book Recommendations

Oprah Winfrey's Book Recommendations

Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.

Inspiring ReadsMemoirs and BiographiesSelf-ImprovementEducationWomen Who Lead
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations

Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations

Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.

Women Who LeadPopular PicksMedia and Pop Culture
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations

Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations

Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.

Memoirs and BiographiesInspiring Reads
Daniel Burka's Book Recommendations

Daniel Burka's Book Recommendations

Daniel Burka is a prominent figure in the tech and design world, best known for his significant contributions to digital product design. As a design partner at GV (formerly Google Ventures), he has played a crucial role in shaping the user experience of numerous successful startups. Burka co-founded the design agency MetaLab, which has worked with top-tier clients like Slack and Coinbase. Additionally, his work at Digg as the Director of Design helped pioneer social media design trends in the early 2000s. While not primarily an author, Burka's influence extends into literature through his insightful writings and talks on design and innovation.

Creativity and InnovationTechnology and Future
Tucker Max's Book Recommendations

Tucker Max's Book Recommendations

Tucker Max is a renowned American author and public speaker best known for his New York Times bestselling book, "I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell," which became a cultural phenomenon and was adapted into a film. His distinctive writing style, characterized by candid and often controversial humor, has garnered a significant following and sparked discussions about the "fratire" literary genre. Max's works have sold millions of copies worldwide, solidifying his impact on contemporary literature. Beyond writing, he co-founded Scribe Media, a company dedicated to helping authors publish their books. Tucker Max's contributions have left a lasting mark on both the literary world and the broader cultural landscape.

Memoirs and BiographiesInspiring ReadsMedia and Pop Culture

Showing 8 of 15 related collections

"We have become so skilled at narrating the world, we forget that the stories we tell can shape reality itself."

Lost Children Archive

By Valeria Luiselli

Frequently Asked Questions