"The Tortilla Curtain is not a new book, but the topic of illegal immigration was timely. My book club just read this and we all enjoyed it immensely! It's one of the best reads I've had in the last couple of years.
"Two couples [are] living in southern California, yet worlds apart. One is a wealthy yuppie couple, one of whom is a writer and an environmentalist and maybe having a bit of a mid-life crisis. The other couple are illegal aliens fighting to make a living and stay alive.
"It's about how their worlds collide and suspicion, ignorance, and doubt. I found it very thought-provoking and I miss the characters; I miss reading the book. Not many books move me that way.
"I didn't know until after I read it that it was somewhat controversial when first published. I just think it's very relevant now, given the discussions about border security and amnesty. I have a newfound sensitivity to the issues and appreciation for their complexity."
-- From Kathy, who listens to WETA in the Washington, D.C. area
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