Areli and her brother, Alex, live in Mexico with Abuela. Every Sunday they speak on the phone to their mama and papa, who live in the United States. Soon Alex moves to New York City to live with their parents, too; eventually, it’s Areli’s turn to join them. Leaving Abuela, her cousins, and friends isn’t easy for Areli; adjusting to life in the United States isn’t, either. One day a classmate calls her “illegal.” “I’m not against the law!” Areli insists when her mom explains what the word means. Her mom assures her that she isn’t, but also explains that Areli isn’t a U.S. citizen. Areli is afraid she’ll be taken back to Mexico and understands that she can’t tell anyone. As time passes she learns English, makes friends, and grows accustomed to the city. A fifth-grade class trip to Ellis Island helps Areli see that her own story of coming to America is part of something bigger, and she feels certain her future is bright. In a note that precedes the story, author Areli Morales explains that she was a DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient in 2013, “finally able to come out of the shadows.” This straightforward, emotionally honest story about one undocumented immigrant child’s experience is set against digital illustrations in muted tones on matte pages. (Ages 5-9)