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A review by sunflower_fantasy
Dominicana by Angie Cruz

emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

A touching book about a young girl who must choose between her own needs and desires and that of her family’s. 

In the 1960s, 15-year-old Ana arrives in New York as part of her arranged marriage with Juan. She moves with the intention of providing her family back home with a better life, but must adjust to the fast-paced, intimidating world of NYC. With a language barrier and her natural cooking skills, Ana must navigate the city on her own terms if she’s to find her place within it. 

This was a heartfelt read, with agitating characters and a vivid imagery of the city. It frequently refers to the political backdrop of the Dominican Republic & the aftermath of the Malcolm X assassination, humanising these events through the perspective of a young immigrant woman.