A review by readwithev
Where We Come from by Oscar Cásares

emotional inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I wish I could give this book 10 stars. Each character is rich in their development, their emotional conflict and family turmoil. There are 3 main characters: Nina, her godson Orlando (12 yrs old) and a young boy named Daniel (13-15 yrs). We also have some interesting italicized paragraphs from a few side characters. These short paragraphs add to the main characters’ history or provide additional context to the story’s themes of familial love, sacrifice, desperation, or anxiety. I love the unique voices Cásares uses for each character. I enjoyed seeing Orlando develop from naive and sad to more empathetic, hopeful, and curious about others. I think Beto (Nina’s brother) was an interesting point of conflict. His half-hearted devotion to his mother, prejudice against immigrants (even though he’s also one), and desire to control others’ decisions. He also looked down on people he thought were “too educated.” An indication of his self-consciousness.
The book is primarily character driven and centers on family sacrifice, separation, devotion, the danger of secrets, and having hope in the midst of great sadness.

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Content Warnings

Minor: Child death, Gun violence, Miscarriage, Rape, Death of parent, and Deportation