Children's Books and Family History: A Sea of Lemon Trees

Family history often begins with a simple question: Who were the people who came before me, and how have their lives shaped my own? As we seek answers, we often discover that understanding our family's story helps us better understand ourselves. The choices, sacrifices, traditions, and experiences of previous generations continue to influence our lives in ways we may not fully recognize.

This is one of the reasons I chose to spotlight A Sea of Lemon Trees by María Dolores Águila. Based on true events, the novel follows twelve-year-old Roberto Alvarez, the youngest of his siblings and the first in his family to be born in the United States. After his parents leave Mexico during a time of political upheaval in search of a better future, the family settles in California hoping to build a new life.

When the Lemon Grove School Board attempts to segregate Mexican students from white students, Roberto, his family, and their community face an impossible choice. Amid threats of deportation and growing discrimination, they risk everything to stand up for equal educational opportunities for all children. Roberto ultimately becomes the lead plaintiff in a landmark court case that would help challenge school segregation in California.

One of the things I appreciate most about this story is that it highlights the courage of ordinary families. Family history is filled with people who faced difficult circumstances, stood up for what they believed was right, and made sacrifices that benefited future generations. A Sea of Lemon Trees reminds us that history is not only shaped by famous figures—it is also shaped by families and communities who refuse to give up hope.

Although I have never experienced the hurt and injustice of segregation, I could relate to Roberto's struggle to balance two cultures and wonder where he truly belonged. At one point he reflects, "I straddle two worlds, and two cultures, never enough, sometimes too much of either. Ni de aquí, ni de allá [neither from here nor there], maybe something different entirely, but always Roberto."

As I read those words, I found myself thinking about my own experience moving from England to America. In California, people often asked why I would ever want to leave England. When I visited England after moving to California, friends would ask why I would ever want to return when I lived in such a beautiful place. For years, I felt caught between two worlds. Part of me belonged in England, and part of me belonged in America.

Over time, I have come to realize that I do not have to choose one over the other. Both places have shaped who I am. Like Roberto, my story is not defined by belonging to one place or another. It is the combination of both experiences that makes me who I am.

ACTIVITY: MY FAMILY'S JOURNEY

This week's activity invites children to think about their own family's journey. Whether your family crossed an ocean, moved across a state, or has lived in the same community for generations, every family has a story worth preserving. Take a moment to reflect on the places, traditions, lessons, and stories that have helped shape who you are today.

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