Book description
SHORTLISTED FOR THE WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 2020
'A story for now, an important story . . . told with incredible freshness' Martha Lane Fox, Chair of Judges, Women's Prize 2020
'The harsh reality of immigration is balanced with a refreshing dose of humour' The Times
'This compassionate and ingenious…
Why read it?
2 authors picked Dominicana as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
All I can say is the pigeon scene. You will have to read the novel to find out what I am referencing, but oh my God, this novel is so good. Dominicans and Dominican-Americans in 1960s New York City? Fierce female protagonists? Writing that makes me stop and want to copy down sentences on a Post-It? Yes, please. I was cracking up, teary-eyed, and satisfied when reading this gem of a novel. I would read anything Angie Cruz writes.
From Jennifer's list on Latina latine authors I wish I had read as a teen.
Effectively a novelization of Cruz’s own mother’s story, Dominicana is about a 15-year-old girl in the Dominican Republic who, in the 1960s, is married off to a local man in his thirties. He has set up a new life for them in Washington Heights, in upper Manhattan. Despite its moments of struggle, spousal abuse, and loneliness, this novel reads lightly and inspirationally—a celebration of its protagonist’s fortitude.
From David's list on coming of age in New York City.
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