American Dirt

Jeanine Cummins's American Dirt, the #1 New York Times bestseller and Oprah Book Club pick that has sold over three million copies, is finally available in paperback.

Lydia lives in Acapulco. She has a son, Luca, the love of her life, and a wonderful husband who is a journalist. And while cracks are beginning to show in Acapulco because of the cartels, Lydia’s life is, by and large, fairly comfortable. But after her husband’s tell-all profile of the newest drug lord is published, none of their lives will ever be the same.

Forced to flee, Lydia and Luca find themselves joining the countless people trying to reach the United States. Lydia soon sees that everyone is running from something. But what exactly are they running to?

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Published Feb 1, 2022

400 pages

Average rating: 8.05

2,522 RATINGS

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K Olson

Jan 14, 2025

4/10 stars

I guess I am in the minority among my Goodreads friends as I was not drawn into this novel. I was hoping to feel transported to Mexico and to get a sense of what the journey to the US might be like. I didn’t get a strong sense of place and I wonder if the author has actually been there. My favorite character was Luca by far. Some of the other characters who were traveling with them seemed flat. I plan to read Devil’s Highway to compare and contrast.

LTC

Nov 20, 2024

Book #46: COVID Hit, Christine's selection, which took place via Zoom. Christine arranged for the author to attend the meeting - incredible!

Torn_KD

Oct 02, 2024

10/10 stars

Great book all around.

KikiStoneCreek

Jun 03, 2023

10/10 stars

It's great to be starting out a new year with a 5-start book that gets a place on my highly recommended book shelf. A page - turner, it combines the fears and joys of a mother and son going through one of the most extraordinary journeys possible. If there's a book you read this year, make it this one!

Acz2332

Jul 06, 2025

7/10 stars

Great vivid story telling about a family tragedy and their escape to freedom. Almost an 8 but the end got a little to theatrical for me