Enrique's Journey by Alejandra

Enrique's Journey by Alejandra - February 2015 Scholarship Essay

“Knowledge is limitless. It is a tool that no one can ever take from you.” These are the words that my father often uses to encourage me to read, and remind me that through reading he learned some of the most powerful lessons. In high school I experienced a moment of truth and realization when I came across, “Enrique’s Journey,” by Isabel Allende. Through the story of a young man named Enrique, Allende offers a plethora of morals. Amongst the many books I read throughout high school, this particular book stood out because of its resonance with my personal story. Like Enrique and his mother, my family came to the United States in search of economic advancement and educational opportunities. Furthermore, it made me realize I should be thankful for the opportunities I have in the United States as a U.S citizen, and it encouraged me to pursue a career in education with an emphasis in immigration to impact the lives of young men like Enrique.

Enrique’s Journey is the story of a young Honduran boy who embarked on an unforgettable quest to the United States to look for his mother at only 11-years-old. Throughout his trek, Enrique is faced with an unimaginable amount of obstacles, such as riding freight trains, and encountering thugs, bandits, and corrupt cops. However, after many failed attempts to get to the US, Enrique turns to drugs for comfort. He steals from his aunt, and gets kicked out of his home, and does not realize how much damaging he is causing his family until a drug dealer threatens to kill his cousin over a drug debt. The turning point in his life is when he realizes he is going to be a father. He decides to get his act together and go in search of the “American Dream.” Despite the challenges, Enrique’s bravery, courage, and hope, motivate him to keep going. After more than ten attempts, ultimately Enrique is reunited with his mother in the US and later with his child and girlfriend.

This book will take readers through an emotional rollercoaster, from moments of extreme happiness, to moments of uncontrollable anxiety. Along with fulfillment, high school students can also learn about prevalent issues in countries other than the U.S. Issues such as immigration, poverty and education. Enrique’s mother, Lourdes, leaves her children with their grandmother, and starts a new family in the U.S. Thousands of families across the country migrate to the U.S each year with hopes of reuniting with their families, however often that is not the case. Many families are left behind, or abandoned, which ultimately leads to resentment. Through these lessons I learned to appreciate the fact that my dad was able to come the United States then bring his whole family with him. Furthermore, I am aware of my privilege of being a U.S citizen that has received a quality education since elementary. This book makes readers realize that not everyone has the privilege of knowing how to read and write. Some have to worry about where they are going to sleep or what they are going to eat. This book teaches high school students about the importance of hard work, and determination. Overall this book makes readers realize that one should not take anything in life for granted and appreciate life’s blessings.