Beyond the Barricade
Beyond the Barricade by Deborah Ellis, published by Oxford University Press in 2009, is a compelling narrative that follows Diego, a young boy who escapes from thugs in the jungle only to find himself lost and searching for his parents. As he is taken in by the Ricardo family, he becomes involved in their struggle to harvest coca, a crop essential for their survival. The story unfolds against the backdrop of an army determined to eradicate coca production, leading to a blockade of Bolivia’s main road as the community protests against the destruction of their livelihoods.
Readers will find a rich exploration of themes related to survival, community, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in times of conflict. Diego’s journey is marked by his growing sense of belonging and the friendships he forms, but the situation escalates as the army’s threats turn violent. As he grapples with the choice between staying to fight alongside the Ricardos or accepting an offer of escape that could reunite him with his family, the narrative delves into the complexities of loyalty and the harsh realities of life in a conflict zone. This edition spans 198 pages and is presented in English, offering a poignant look at the intersection of personal and political struggles.
Official synopsis Publisher
Diego has managed to get away from thugs who were forcing him to make cocaine paste in the jungle, but he doesn’t know where he is or how he will find his parents. When he’s taken in by the Ricardo family, he’s eager to help them harvest their coca crop. Doing so reminds him of home because, like his family, the Ricardos need the harvest for survival. But the army doesn’t want any coca getting into the hands of criminals who will turn it into cocaine for the western market and so destroys every leaf it can find. Every family in the area now faces devastation. In protest, the people organise a blockade of Bolivia’s main road. Diego is swept along by the excitement of it all, and by the sense of belonging. He makes himself invaluable, running errands, helping out where he can, and making new friends.But the good humour soon sours. At first the army merely threatens to break the blockade, but then its threats become a violent reality. When Diego is given the chance to escape, he is tempted. And when he discovers that the person offering rescue could take him to his family, it’s almost impossible to resist. But should he stay and fight, or leave silently and perhaps, finally, find his family?
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