Sacrificing Families

Sacrificing Families examines the impact of transnational migration on Salvadoran families, focusing on parents who leave their children behind to work in the United States. Through interviews and fieldwork, author Leisy Abrego documents the experiences of parents working in Los Angeles and the children who remain in El Salvador. The research spans multiple years and locations, following both sides of divided families as they navigate separation, communication challenges, and economic pressures. The book presents direct accounts from mothers, fathers, and children, revealing their different perspectives on migration and family relationships. The narratives center on practical and emotional aspects of transnational family life - from remittance payments to long-distance parenting strategies to reunification attempts. The participants' stories illustrate how immigration policies and economic conditions shape their daily choices and long-term plans. Through these interconnected accounts, Abrego explores broader themes about global inequality, gender roles in Latin American families, and how U.S. immigration laws affect family structures across borders. The work raises questions about the hidden costs of migration and the meaning of sacrifice in pursuit of economic survival.

Readers highlight the book's personal narratives and detailed documentation of Salvadoran transnational families. Reviews emphasize the value of Abrego's interviews and focus on emotional costs of family separation. Likes: - Clear methodology and research approach - Balance of academic analysis with human stories - Examination of gender differences in remittance patterns - Documentation of children's perspectives Dislikes: - Academic writing style can be dense for general readers - Some reviewers wanted more policy recommendations - Limited geographic scope (mostly Los Angeles) Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (23 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (8 ratings) Sample review: "The author's use of longitudinal data and personal testimonies brings depth to understanding migration's impact on both parents and children." - Goodreads reviewer Another notes: "The focus on gender dynamics in remittance patterns adds an important dimension missing from other migration studies." - Academia.edu review

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🌟 Author Leisy Abrego grew up as the child of Salvadoran immigrants and brings her personal experience to her research on transnational families. 🌟 The book is based on 130 in-depth interviews conducted in both El Salvador and the United States over a five-year period. 🌟 Approximately 20% of children in El Salvador have at least one parent living in the United States, highlighting the widespread impact of transnational migration. 🌟 The research reveals that children of migrant mothers often face more emotional challenges than those of migrant fathers, due to cultural expectations about maternal roles. 🌟 The remittances (money sent home) discussed in the book represent the largest source of foreign income for El Salvador, exceeding both foreign investment and official development assistance.