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When I was Puerto Rican by Esmeralda Santiago MAG
You are probably wondering why in the world you should read this book. Plain and simple, it shows you the trials that immigrants face when they move to the United States, including the many differences in language and culture. For example, when Esmeralda was growing up in Puerto Rico she would hear baladas, and when she got to New York, the music was rock and roll. In addition, the book shows what it’s like to have parents who are constantly fighting.
This book was great to read because I can relate to it; I am from Puerto Rico and know the whole jibaro lifestyle. However, the book is about a girl and what she has to live with: her parents never get married and her dad has a daughter with a different woman.
This novel also shows the customs of Puerto Rican people, like their small shops and traditional foods. Author Esmeralda Santiago was raised in Puerto Rico and when her mom gets a job, they move to New York, leaving their old life behind. Her life there is difficult because she is responsible for her younger siblings and herself.
When I Was Puerto Rican is perfect for those who like books that have real meaning. Sometimes it will make you sad and other times it will make you laugh. I highly recommend it to everyone.
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This article has 27 comments.
An important fact you didn't mention is that Puerto Ricans are United States citizens ergo, they aren't immigrants, they're migrants.
I have not read this book nor does it interest me much but I am Puerto Rican and have always lived on the island. I have, however, traveled a lot to US and Europe.
I havent read this book yet but in the review it made me want to own it. I can completely relate to this book because i am puerto rican and i had to move,leaving my family behind, too. i will check the book out if its as good as the review.
thanks for the review
i guess this a great book even thoe i dnt read bt i think this a great book 2 read any day and any time and anywhere.
I read this review, really want to read the book now (: I also enjoyed reading your discussions about racism.
I <3 TEEN INK :) (:
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