When it comes to Latin American literature, the first name that pops up in our minds is Gabriel Garcia Márquez. But there are other exceptional Latin American writers that are not recommended enough; Julia Alvarez being on the top of that list.
If you are a Latin American, looking to reconnect with your roots, reading Alvarez’s works is a great place to start. Her books provide heartbreaking insights into the Latin-American immigration experience. I find her works relatable to the identity crisis most Latin Americans face. On that note, I have mentioned her best books in this article, especially on the occasion of the Hispanic Heritage Month!
However, before we get into it you can order these books or read them online. If you choose the latter option, just make sure you have a stable internet connection for smooth flow. If you don’t have one, I recommend contacting Spectrum servicio al cliente for a dependable internet plan!
Once you have your online needs sorted, let us get into the best Julia Alvarez books you should read. I also have added a bonus recommendation for your kid as well.
- How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents (1991)
One important fact about Alvarez’s early life is that she fled the Dominican Republic when she was just ten years old. Her father was involved in the campaign to overthrow the dictator, Rafael Trujillo. This put their family in danger causing them to leave everything behind.
Alvarez’s first novel, How the García Girls Lost Their Accents is based on her abrupt beginning in the US.
The book’s narrative is very unique and is told in a reverse chronological order. It spans over thirty years and shows the lives of the Garcia sisters; Sofia, Carla, Sandra, and Yolanda. Each of the sisters struggles to adjust in New York City, while trying to let go of their Latin selves. Moreover, the theme of the lack of a sense of belonging is something all of us Latin Americans can relate to. Lastly, the book’s changing perspectives is the most gripping aspect.
- In the Time of Butterflies (1994)
In the Time of Butterflies is a fictional retelling of the Mirabal sisters from the Dominican Republic. The dictator Rafael Trujillo executed three Mirabal sisters for plotting against him. The book tells their story in two narratives, the first and the third. Furthermore, it gives deep insights into the sisters’, Minerva, Dede, Patria, and María Teresa, lives. The book is based on themes like courage, feminism, and making brave choices for a cause.
The book is Alvarez’s attempt at giving the sisters a life again, so that the world could get to know them a bit more. Each sister has her own reasons for opposing the dictatorship, which the book beautifully shows. Minerva is the most driven to stand up to injustice, while Patria does it for her children. Maria joins the opposition with Minerva, to feel worthy of her rich husband. However, Dede is the only sister who did not take part in the revolution but raises her sisters’ children and keeps the memory of the Mariposas alive.
- Afterlife (2020)
One of Alvarez’s recent works, Afterlife, combines three stories of four sisters, yet again, together. These stories are separate but joined together by the support the sisters show for each other.
Antonia, an English professor is processing the death of her husband whereas Izzy’s story shows her mysterious disappearance. The third sister, Estela, is an undocumented immigrant living in the US.
Antonia is the main character of the novel, and we see the story mostly from her perspective. The novel has strong themes of Latin sisterhood, identity, immigration, and loss which connects quite well with the Latino audience. What stands out to me is how Antonia pushes through her sadness to help her sisters and do the right thing.
Bonus Section for the los Jóvenes: The Tia Lola Stories Series
The best thing about Julia Alvarez is her versatility. Not only is she a novelist, but we also have her essays and poetry books as well. Moreover, she has also written books for children. Me and my daughter’s personal favorite is The Tia Lola Stories Series. The series has four books, featuring the quirky aunt, Tia Lola. It highlights surviving in two cultures from a child’s perspective, whose name is Miguel.
The books in order are:
- How Tia Lola Came to
VisitStay - How Tia Lola Learned to Teach
- How Tia Lola Saved the Summer
- How Tia Lola Ended Up Starting Over
The books feature the adventures of Miguel, who was coping with his parent’s split before his Tia Lola came over from the Dominican Republic. The series shows how Tia Lola becomes a grounded presence in Miguel’s life. Moreover, these books are intended for children between the ages of 8 and 12. They are a perfect blend of fun, adventure, and magic, as the kids navigate summers with Tia Lola.
