When We Make It
A Nuyorican Novel
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4.6 • 19 Ratings
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- $7.99
Publisher Description
A “raw, breathtaking, and brilliant” (Kirkus Reviews) young adult novel-in-verse where a first-generation Puerto Rican girl refuses to stop asking questions.
“The energy. The clarity. The beauty. Elisabet Velasquez brings it all. . . . Her voice is FIRE!”—Jacqueline Woodson, New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of Brown Girl Dreaming
“Exquisite poetry portrays not only anger and fear, but also hope . . . Gripping and soulful.”—School Library Journal, starred review
Sarai is a first-generation Puerto Rican question asker who sees the truth, pain, humor, and beauty of the world both inside and outside her Bushwick apartment. Sarai knows that asking questions is the smartest thing she can do, especially when navigating family trauma, masculinity in its most toxic form, and the systemic pressures of life in a rapidly gentrifying Brooklyn. Questioning allows Sarai to live with determination and laughter, and to celebrate herself in a way that has long been denied.
When We Make It is an unforgettable debut novel-in-verse written in conversation with the Nuyorican poetry and literature that has come before it. Elisabet Velasquez’ novel is a love letter to girls who were taught to believe that they would not make it at all, for those born with stories already erased, and those redefining what it means to “make it” every damn day.
Customer Reviews
Great read for my Newyoricans!
This book was such a quick great read. The way the author narrates her experience living in NY and being Puerto Rican heartwarming and comical. I HIGHLY recommend.
Wepaaa
I loved it… This was Sarai story but it could’ve been my own or one of my sisters or cousins. This book was amazing.
Beautifully written
I loved this book. As a New York City raised Latina, it is hard to find books about your experience in book stores. The author does an excellent job of bringing that unspoken shared experience of growing up poor and cast aside to light. But this is not a pity party for the characters of this book. Despite it all, she maintains hope and positivity throughout. I highly recommend this read.