At 15, Ana is married off to off to 32-year-old Juan as part of a business arrangement that will supposedly help her family. Forced to leave her family behind in the Dominican Republic, Ana moves to New York with Juan, where she is abused and has no one to turn to for help, save Juan's younger brother Cesar, whom Ana quickly bonds with. Despite this bond, Cruz makes it clear that Ana does not need anyone to save her--she is more then capable of taking care of herself and making her way on her own. With a 1960's setting, Cruz does an incredible job of showcasing the immigrant experience through the ages of a teenage girl. Equal parts moving, heartbreaking, and funny, this book is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys coming of age stories.Publisher description:
In bright, musical prose that reflects the energy of New York City, Cruz's Dominicana is a vital portrait of the immigrant experience and the timeless coming-of-age story of a young woman finding her voice in the world.