Spare Parts (Young Readers’ Edition): The True Story of Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and an Impossible Dream

Dive into the inspiring true story of "Spare Parts (Young Readers' Edition): The True Story of Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and an Impossible Dream," a captivating tale of resilience, ingenuity, and the pursuit of the American Dream. This young readers' adaptation of Joshua Davis's New York Times bestseller, skillfully adapted by award-winning Mexican American author Reyna Grande, brings to life the remarkable journey of four undocumented Mexican teenagers who defied all expectations in the world of competitive robotics. In 2004, Oscar, Cristian, Luis, and Lorenzo, hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, found themselves at the National Underwater Robotics Championship at the University of California, Santa Barbara. These young men, often overlooked and underestimated, were given an opportunity to shine thanks to the unwavering belief of two dedicated high school science teachers. Armed with limited resources, a shoestring budget pieced together from spare parts and small donations, they embarked on an extraordinary challenge. Their creation, affectionately nicknamed "Stinky," was far from the sleek, high-tech robots of their competitors, who were often representing some of the nation's top engineering programs. Yet, Stinky possessed a unique spirit and a testament to the boys' dedication and resourcefulness. As they navigated the underwater course, facing technical difficulties and the pressure of the competition, the boys demonstrated incredible teamwork, problem-solving skills, and an unyielding determination to succeed. Reyna Grande, acclaimed author of the memoir "The Distance Between Us" (which details her own experiences as an undocumented child immigrant), lends her powerful voice to this adaptation, imbuing the story with empathy and authenticity. She beautifully captures the struggles and triumphs of these young men, highlighting their ingenuity, courage, and the unwavering bond of friendship that propelled them forward. "Spare Parts (Young Readers' Edition)" is more than just a story about robots; it's a powerful exploration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), immigration, and the enduring power of dreams. It serves as an accessible and engaging introduction to these important topics for young readers, inspiring them to embrace challenges, pursue their passions, and believe in the possibility of achieving the impossible. The book also delves into the complexities of the immigration experience, offering a nuanced perspective on the lives and aspirations of undocumented youth in America. Readers will be captivated by the boys' resourcefulness as they overcome obstacles and learn valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of believing in themselves. Prepare to be inspired by this heartwarming and empowering true story that demonstrates that with dedication, hard work, and a little bit of ingenuity, anything is possible, regardless of the odds. This edition makes the story accessible to a new generation of readers, ensuring that the inspiring message of "Spare Parts" continues to resonate with young people for years to come. This is a must-read for middle grade and young adult readers seeking stories of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of education.