I have read this book twice since I received it. Current events in the United States 2016-2017 have brought me back to this book and a thoughtful but sad realization that this country is not the same for all. My only criticism of this book was the authors use of Spanish without a translation as the people in the book speak. I do not speak Spanish and felt that perhaps I was missing something in the conversation and perhaps an important part of that communication/passage. ( )

The Weight of Shadows was extremely informative on the situation that many immigrants face in our country. It was well written, combining narrative and facts in a way that kept me interested. I would recommend this book to educators as a way of understanding and relating to many students who are here with the hopes of a brighter future. ( )

I received this book as part of the Early Reviewers. I was unsure what to expect from this book, however I am extremely glad I received the book. The experience Mr. Orduna has shared in this book have given me another perspective on immigration. Instead of having my knowledge and thoughts limited by what is reported in mainstream media, I am able to think about the experience of those attempting to make a better life for their family. The humor that is included with both the political aspects of border crossing and Mr. Orduna's struggle to feel like he fits in made this story come alive. Even without understanding some of the Spanish that was in the book, I was able to fully enjoy and understand Mr. Orduna's experience. ( )

The first thing I want to say about José Orduña's book is that I enjoyed his style of writing. He goes back and forth between narrative, political treatise, humor, and probably more that I did not recognize! So this is definitely a book that will hold your attention, and for those of you who enjoy books about unique life experiences many if not most will never endure, then this is a book for you.

I must also say that this cannot be a regular book review in any sense because it is the unique experience of one man and how these experiences have shaped his view of America and his political and social ideologies. I do not want to make this entry a critique of another man's viewpoints so it is enough for me to tell you that Orduña has written a powerful book and though I may not agree with all of his conclusions regarding our immigration policy, it is definitely worth a read. My final comment on the book is that, for me, it pointed out very clearly how two people can come from very similar backgrounds and come to believe very different things. This is the beauty of education and using one's mind to consider the world. No two people will always agree on everything, but we can respect one another's right to an opinion. This also highlights the dangers of pointing to any one person and claiming for them the right to speak for an entire culture. Nobody can do so. Not José Orduña and certainly not I. So read this book and enjoy the journey he describes, but don't fall into the trap of thinking that he speaks for anyone other than himself and his own unique experiences. ( )

This was an amazing memoir, released at a very apt time. Discussing the personal trials of being an "immigrant" as well as some of the issues surrounding immigration, citizenship and naturalization. A must-read for everyone who wants to know more about what immigration actually means and entails. ( )