How do you keep a family together when a revolution is tearing your country apart?
“Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna” is a powerful historical fiction novel inspired by the author’s great-grandmother’s experiences during the Mexican Revolution. Set in 1913, this compelling story follows twelve-year-old Petra Luna who, after her mother’s death and father’s forced conscription by Federales, vows to protect her remaining family—her grandmother, younger sister, and baby brother. As they flee north through harsh desert terrain toward the U.S. border, Petra clings to her dream of learning to read despite her grandmother’s warnings that such “barefoot dreams” aren’t meant for peasants like them. The novel has received significant recognition for its impactful storytelling.
“Barefoot Dreams” serves as an exceptional resource for exploring SDG 4: Quality Education through its poignant depiction of a child’s desperate desire for literacy and learning opportunities. Petra’s determination to overcome societal, economic, and gender barriers to education resonates with the goal’s emphasis on inclusive and equitable education for all. Her journey brilliantly exemplifies the IB learner profile characteristics of being a risk-taker By leading her family through perilous situations, Petra embodies being a Risk-Taker. Carefully considering difficult choices and learning from each challenge makes her authentically Reflective.
Consider using “Barefoot Dreams” to prompt discussions about educational access globally, historical barriers to literacy, and refugee experiences. Students may enjoy map activities tracking Petra’s journey, research projects on the Mexican Revolution, or reflecting on their own “barefoot dreams” and the obstacles they’ve overcome to achieve them.
