Short-story writer and essayist Stone's beautiful debut novel tracks the hopes and travails of a Mexican couple rent by figurative and physical borders. Lilia and Héctor have strong ties to Puerto Isadore—Lilia's family has called it home for generations—but the allure of a better life in America prompts Héctor to entrust himself to a coyote and endure a terrifying and trying journey that lands him in South Carolina. Meanwhile, Lilia remains at home to care for their infant daughter and cope with the passing of her grandmother on her own. As Héctor and Lilia fight their own battles thousands of miles apart, the divide grows too burdensome for Lilia—whose friends maintain that Héctor has abandoned her, "ashamed of his heritage"—who attempts her own crossing in hopes of joining her husband. However, as is the case for many would-be immigrants, the trip is disastrous, and the realized risks far outweigh the potential rewards. Héctor and Lilia's hopes and trepidations are poignant and honest, and Stone manages to deftly address a serious political and humanitarian issue without seeming heavy-handed. Well-written, expertly paced, and timely. (Mar.)
The Iguana Tree
