A review by kimdavishb
Everlasting Nora by Marie Miranda Cruz

5.0

This heartwarming debut by Marie Miranda Cruz captivated me from the very first page until the very last word was read. I was immersed into a culture that I know very little about and enjoyed the opportunity to learn about it. Her use of Filipino words scattered throughout the story added authenticity. Be sure to check out the glossary of Tagalog words at the back of the book! The descriptive, vivid language Ms. Cruz uses helps the reader feel like they are there, experiencing everything the protagonist, Nora, is going through. It is obvious the author did ample research and put it to good use. I was horrified by the poverty that befell Nora and her mother… it seems unfathomable that children actually live in the conditions she was forced into. It definitely opened my eyes and I think it’s especially beneficial for school-aged children in the U.S. to see the lack of basic necessities so many other kids in the world must contend with. Despite the heartbreak that Nora experiences, she also has a resilient spirit. As the story progresses, Nora finds inner strength and determination which brings a warmth to the reader. It left me cheering for Nora, knowing she has what it takes to make a difference in her surroundings.