When I Was Puerto Rican by Esmeralda Santiago

Synopsis: Memoir of a young girl growing up in Puerto Rico and moving to New York. 



Writing Style: 1st person, novel style 



Pacing: Moderately fast 



Personal Highlights: It was a pleasant treat realizing this story occurred in the 1950’s/60’s. I mention it because this was not reflected in the cover.

The novelish writing was a personal favorite. Copious quoted dialogue and vivid descriptions made the story jump off the page, the makings of great pacing. Negi’s curiosity I wholly loved as well. The questions she had for her parents (both admirable people), albeit a father who spent much time away from the home... ‘finding work’ among other endeavors, and a mother saddled with 11 children; telling of those times. Also telling was the introspection drawn from moral customs and approaches used to discipline children. I really was taken by Negi’s description of ‘leaving her body’, particularly when she was in pain, often more mental than physical. Despite these historical events happening over a half century ago, many of her reflections I not only found relatable but relevant today. The ironies weren't missed... events such as 'the experts’ showing up at the schools to teach nutrition when residents grew better food in their backyards, along with her later views on race when she moved to New York. And although at times Negi seemed a little dramatic, attributes of a great storyteller, overall ‘When I Was Puerto Rican’ was not only redeemable, but tremendously enlightening and enjoyable.