Papers

Gr 7 Up—Several of the teenagers profiled in this film, including high school AP scholars and valedictorians, did not know they were undocumented immigrants until they applied to college and the door was slammed in their faces. Rather than give up, many of them became activists, promoting the DREAM Act, which would offer undocumented students a path to citizenship through higher education or the military. The DREAM Act did not pass in 2010, so we need, more than ever, to hear the voices of these undocumented youth. Despite logistical and financial obstacles, two of the eloquent and hardworking teens profiled here manage to attend college, while one claims he was rejected from every college because of his status. Yet another student is deported. The film includes interviews with immigration lawyers, senators, activists, educators, and historians. Considering immigration history more broadly, the film draws parallels between the plight of undocumented students today and immigrant groups facing discrimination in the past. The rich historical material offers an ideal starting point for research on immigrant history. The production quality of the film is excellent, with spare graphics and music that underscores the film's hopeful and sobering spirit. Raising important questions about youth, education, and immigration, the film deserves a place in every library.—Jess deCourcy Hinds, Bard High School. Early College, Long Island City, NY