"When I Was Puerto Rican" by Esmeralda Santiago has been one of the most interesting books that I have read a long time. It is very realistic, which I love because nothing is toned down. It is all what a real life experience would be. In the story, Esmeralda (Negi) grows up in a busy household with 6 younger siblings. She is surrounded by unhappy parents who constantly fight and make-up, and is often the one who is expected to take charge and help care for the family when Mami is gone to work, and Papi is god knows where. We see the world through Esmeralda's eyes and get to experience our pre-teen years again, learning about her progress in becoming a "senorita" and struggle with coping to various lifestyles and situations, such as her mother leaving for New York for long periods of time, as well as herself.
So far, the story hasn't had a solid plot. We are basically reading a journal, and hear about Negi's day to day experiences in various Puerto Rican villages and cities. It ranges from taking care of the kids when Mami isn't home, to dealing with boys who wish to carry your books. We are barely starting to get into the chapter when Negi will finally move to New York, so I am excited to see how she will handle this completely new experience. Even though the book does jump around, the author manages to captivate us with Negi's thoughts. This character has captivated me so much, that I am unable to put the book down. I love the fact that Santiago is willing to tell a good story from the perspective of a 11 year old. It gives us a better connection with the character, and I am constantly relating things from her life and culture to my own.
This has been a good read so far, and I am excited to continue. It saddens me that we have about 100 more pages to go, but I hope they live up to my expectations. (343)
