Hoyos

Louis Sachar

  • First published 1994
  • 238 pages
  • Spanish
  • Classic
Stanley Yelnats believes his family is cursed. Unjustly sentenced to a juvenile detention center named Camp Green Lake, he is forced to spend his days digging holes in the middle of a dried-up lakebed in the Texas desert. The warden claims the relentless labor builds character, but Stanley soon suspects there is a different reason for the digging. He and the other boys are not just digging to pass the time; they are searching for something buried long ago.

As Stanley toils under the punishing sun, he begins to unravel the history of the land and its connection to his own family's past. The story weaves together tales of outlaws, forbidden love, and a centuries-old curse that has followed the Yelnats generations. In a place where the past feels very much alive, Stanley must dig up the truth to clear his name and finally break his family's legacy of bad luck.
4.02
1.4M ratings across the web
7 in 10 readers loved it, 1 didn't like it
Reviews for this book highlight its widespread appeal and clever storytelling, with many readers describing it as a fun, quirky, and memorable experience. Positive feedback consistently praises the author's ability to weave together multiple interconnected storylines from different time periods, creating a satisfying and ingenious plot that keeps readers engaged. Characters, particularly the protagonist Stanley, are often lauded as well-developed and easy to empathize with, fostering a sense of connection and investment in their journey. The book is celebrated for its exploration of significant themes such as friendship, hope, courage, perseverance, and the impact of history and fate, all delivered through an intelligent and accessible writing style.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some readers expressed reservations. A few found the narrative to be repetitive, specifically noting the frequent mention of the main character's name or certain descriptive phrases, which they felt became tiresome. The ending, while satisfying for most, was described by some as underwhelming or rushed, failing to provide the impactful conclusion they anticipated. Additionally, a minority of reviewers felt that some secondary characters were not as fully developed as the main duo. One critique also pointed to certain thematic elements as feeling preachy or relying on stereotypes, which detracted from their enjoyment.

Overall, the book is widely regarded as a middle-grade classic, a fantastic adventure that resonates deeply with many. It is highly recommended for readers who appreciate a clever and intricately plotted story that combines humor with thoughtful exploration of human resilience and justice. Those who enjoy tales of friendship, overcoming adversity, and discovering hidden connections across generations, regardless of age, are likely to find this book a captivating and rewarding read.

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This edition
EDICIONES SM, 2016
ISBN
9789587738414
Language
Spanish
Original edition Originally published in 1994 · French · L'Ecole des loisirs-Médium club

Other editions (157)