Iraida Velazquez

I enjoyed reading this book as I was able to relate to the story and the author. Good descriptions allowed me to visualize the events in the story. The book interjects words and phrases in spanish which provided nostalgia and authenticity to the puertorican culture. The mention of customs and culinary delights would inspire anyone to visit the island. Current events and historical facts about Puerto Rico and the United States were noted. The mention of artists and musicians popular at the time was appreciated. The social, cultural, familial and economic impact of puertoricans moving to New York was described. This is a story of survival, determination and triumph. The main character, Segunda, teaches us to never give up on our dreams.