Danilo Was Here

By Tamika Burgess

A young boy must choose between family and dreams after a military invasion shatters his world.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 246 ratings

304 pages

$9.99Save 4%

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Bookroo's summary

In the wake of a devastating military invasion, Danilo's baseball dreams seem distant. With his father gone and his family on the brink of displacement, a chance to train in California offers hope. But it's also the land that destroyed his home. As Danilo navigates a new world of competitive teammates and a demanding coach, he must decide if chasing his dreams is worth the cost. Will he find his father and secure a future for his family, or will the past hold him back? Danilo's journey is a test of courage and heart.

From the publisher

2026-2027 Texas Bluebonnet Award List 2026 Pedro and Daniel Intersectionality Book Award Longlist Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2025A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard SelectionFrom the acclaimed author of Sincerely Sicily, Tamika Burgess, comes a timely coming-of-age story about a young boy’s fight to save his family and his dreams in the aftermath of the US military invasion of Panamá. Perfect for fans of Janae Marks, Adrianna Cuevas, and Chrystal D. Giles!Danilo Osorio Jr.’s baseball skills were once the pride of his father and entire hometown of El Chorrillo, Panamá. But that was then, and this is now…Following 1989’s Operation Just Cause, a US military invasion that left his neighborhood decimated, Danilo couldn’t care less about baseball or the father who abandoned him for opportunities in the States. Now Danilo’s focus is taking care of his mamá and sister and trying to save them all from needing to relocate to a refugee camp.When Danilo unintentionally catches the eye of a baseball recruiter and is offered the opportunity to visit and train in California–the same place as his father’s last known address–he is tasked with deciding to go or stay. But if playing baseball could help him find his father and secure the extra funds his family needs, Danilo is willing to travel anywhere, even to the very country responsible for destroying his home.Between his tough-as-nails baseball coach, ultracompetitive teammates, and overly enthusiastic host family, Danilo’s plans encounter some curveballs. And when his turn to bat finally comes, he’ll have to decide what and who he’s actually fighting for.

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