The book I just completed is called Ana's Story A Journey of Hope, by Jenna Bush. This is a true story of a girl that Jenna Bush met while working with UNICEF. Ana, is a young Latin American girl living with HIV. Although the story is told in a very simple manner, it makes a very deep impact. From her earliest memories, Ana's life has been full of loss and secrets. She endures fear and abuse and is shuffled around between relatives and even a juvenile reform center. All the while, Ana struggles to look to the future and make the most of her life. She eventually finds a place to live where she feels totally accepted and welcome, a group home for people who are living with the HIV/AIDS virus. When she becomes pregnant and gives birth to a baby girl, Ana stays determined to make the best life possible for herself and her daughter.
This story was sad, but, also uplifting. I'm amazed at Ana's strength and what she had to endure. The reading was quick and easy, told in very short chapters in an easy matter-of-fact way. The subject matter does include topics such as sexual abuse, pregnancy, and using condoms to prevent the spread of HIV, but it is discussed in a very responsible way. I think any teen could benefit and/or learn something from this book. I have always been a fan of the Bush family and I applaud Jenna Bush for her work with UNICEF and sharing this story.
2 comments:
This does sound like a moving book for young people; I will recommend it to our social studies teacher.
Sounds like a great read for anyone. Teen or not.
Thanks for the review.
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