Where do I belong?

As a child, Obando observes his dark-haired, brown-skinned schoolmates and compares their appearance to his own blond hair and blue eyes. Which of the two dark-haired Mexican ladies in the house where he lives is actually his mother? Who is his father?

When adverse circumstances leave Obando homeless, he has a strong desire to uncover the mystery surrounding his life. Unusual circumstances bring him face to face with his biological parents.

This story brings out the cultural contrast between the native Mexicans and the Russian Mennonites living in colonies. Although Obando struggles to find a place to belong. God in His mercy reveals Himself to a boy who was literally lost and helps him discover his true identity. He is no longer nobody's boy.

Table of Contents

• [maps]

• 1. Heinrich Is Lost
• 2. Looking for Evidence
• 3. "Mama! Papa!"
• 4. A Tedious Journey
• 5. Heinrich's New Name
• 6. More Strangers
• 7. Threshing Day
• 8. School Days Begin
• 9. Goodbye, Rosa
• 10. Escape
• 11. Victoria Needs Help
• 12. Digging for Gold
• 13. Victoria's Last Days
• 14. Obando on His Own
• 15. Trip to La Junta
• 16. Red Face
• 17. Meeting Mennonites
• 18. Back in Cuauhtémoc
• 19. Trek to Santa Rita with Pedro
• 20. Working for Balthazar
• 21. Visitors from Santa Clara
• 22. At Home with Jake and Justina
• 23. "Who Is My Father?"

• Author's Note
• About the Author