Mode

kid

parent

Meet talented Benvenida who lives in Spain, fun-loving Reina from Turkey, brave Alegra forced to flee Cuba and musical Paloma, growing up in Miami. Their lives span several centuries, but they have more in common than you can possibly imagine. 
Ages 10+
Pages 272
Publisher Penguin Random House
Last Offered Apr 2026
Awards
Newbery Honor Title
Sydney Taylor Honor Award

Average Rating

81 Reviews

Featured Reviews

kid avatar
Review by Elana

Benvenida, a Spanish Jew who gets exiled from her own country; Reina, a girl living in Turkey who wants to be free; Alegra, a young girl in Cuba during its “revolution;” and Paloma, a girl from Miami who wants to learn about her roots, are all relatives from different countries, time periods, and lifestyles. They are connected more than you might realize. Their stories are heartfelt and suspenseful! They make the past seem in reach, and I learned a lot about different cultures, history, and Jewish life from across time and around the world. If you want to find out more about these four girls and the unique challenges they face, you might like to read the incredible book Across So Many Seas.

kid avatar
Review by Sarah

Across So Many Seas by Ruth Behar has to be one of the most intriguing novels I’ve ever read. I really love how the story is told from four different perspectives. It’s really unique how the main characters face issues that are relatable today. The ending had to be the best part for me, the way it all came together. Overall I think this was a great book and I really recommend this.

Reader Reviews

Leave a Review

Leave a Review

Leave a Review

kid avatar

Goodyyyyyyyyyy

Review by HlovesHOTDOGS

Love

Nov 10, 2026 04:45 PM
kid avatar

Across so many seas

Review by KSBerl

So many stories from the same family!

Nov 07, 2026 11:45 AM
kid avatar

Wow

Review by HyperBowie

This book was so goood I love how the story was written! Each part of the story connects to each part. I recommend this book 📕 🤩😀

Nov 06, 2026 07:47 PM
kid avatar

Seaturtle 2017

Review by Seaturtle2017

I really enjoyed this book and I think it’s one that I would recommend for you

Nov 06, 2026 05:21 PM
kid avatar

wonderful book

Review by MayaWH

I think this book was very good, and I loved how it was told. the story went in order of multiple generations of women in a family, and was told from their perspectives. it was so satisfying to be able to make the connections between the 4 stories, each of which would have been great by itself too. I definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a powerful read.

Nov 02, 2026 08:44 PM