Spare Parts by Joshua Davis is a true story based on four illegal Mexican immigrants - Oscar, Luis, Cristian, and Lorenzo. Upon journeys across the border, they settle into Carl Hayden High School in Arizona. They find themselves hungry to learn and experience a different life from what they had in Mexico. Joined by two enthusiastic teachers, the squad embarks on a mission to build an underwater robot and compete against top-tier colleges such as MIT, despite their lack of finances and available resources. They encounter numerous roadblocks but the team’s determination never once falters - this book highlights the struggles of the lower class, the flaws in the modern education system, and the power of sheer determination.
This is a truly awe-inspiring book. It shows how anything can be achieved as long as you have a true passion for the task. It sheds light on the struggles that undocumented people must go through, which is especially relevant in today’s world. The fact that this was a true story makes it even more impressive, especially because the kids came from such a harsh background. The only flaw that I found while reading the book is that it can be quite slow at times and the plot jumps from technical details and personal stories, making it a little harder to follow. Overall, Spare Parts is a powerful and influential read earning a four out of five.