Revolving around the life of twelve-year-old Nora, Marie Miranda Cruz’s debut novel delves into the growing divide between the middle class and those below the poverty line. After a devastating family tragedy, Nora and her mother are forced to live in Manila’s North Cemetery as informal settlers. Things take a turn for the worse when Nora’s mother mysteriously disappears one day.

Despite its premise, the story in Everlasting Nora is ultimately heartwarming. As Nora searches for her missing parent, she rediscovers compassion, resilience, and optimism within her community.

Cruz proves to be an expert in thoughtfully portraying the lived experiences of the poor and marginalized in the Philippines. Through her protagonist’s innocent eyes, she delivers a moving story that is both incredibly bleak and cautiously hopeful. True to its namesake, the impression that this book leaves is everlasting.

Highly recommended!

* I received a digital ARC of Everlasting Nora as part of my participation in a blog tour organized by Kate. This neither affects my opinion nor my review.