A review by siobhanward
Dominicana by Angie Cruz

emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

This book fell a bit flat for me - I think it just felt like it wasn't telling a fresh story. I was hoping that since I've not read a whole lot about the Dominican Republic, that it would offer something new, but it just didn't. In terms of immigration stories, Patsy , which I read earlier in the year offered a more interesting and powerful narrative, so I would consider reading that before reaching for this one.

However, there were some solid aspects to the story. Ana was a well-written character, especially for a 15 year old trying to navigate immigrating, learning a new language, abuse, relationships, etc. I think Cruz setting the story during wartime in the Dominican Republic while having the bulk of the story taking place in the United States added a lot and really reinforced Ana's feelings of isolation. I think I just struggled because for so long Ana just feels so helpless and it was hard to read. The story was well-written, but I just don't know what it offered.
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