Ordering Books for When I Was Puerto Rican by Esmeralda Santiago

No order minimum; you can order just one copy if that's all you need! :-) Order your class set of books for When I Was Puerto Rican now, and take advantage of our bulk order discounts!

Bulk Order Discounts: Order 5 or more books (same title) and save 15%. Order Online: Order online with MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, or PayPal. Order By Mail: Send your order with a school/district check. No personal checks accepted.

About the Book When I Was Puerto Rican

When I Was Puerto Rican is a memoir by Esmeralda Santiago that recounts her childhood in rural Puerto Rico and her eventual migration to the United States. The narrative begins with Santiago’s early years in Puerto Rico, where she introduces readers to her family, including her parents and a growing number of siblings, ultimately totaling eleven. Santiago’s story is one of coming of age amidst the complexities of her family dynamics, particularly focusing on her parents’ tumultuous relationship and her father’s infidelity.

As Santiago matures, she confronts typical childhood issues such as bullying, puberty, mortality, and romance, all within the context of poverty and the rich cultural backdrop of Puerto Rico. The memoir then follows her to New York, where her experiences as an immigrant add another layer to her journey of self-discovery. Santiago struggles with her identity, feeling “Other” in a new country and navigating the nuances of being a Puerto Rican in America.

The book is not only a personal narrative but also a broader commentary on identity, family, cultural adaptation, and the immigrant experience. Santiago’s vivid storytelling provides a unique perspective on these themes, offering readers a poignant look at the challenges and triumphs of her life. When I Was Puerto Rican is the first of Santiago’s three memoirs, which continue to explore her life’s journey. 

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It takes a long time to gather all the data for our new book page format with more useful descriptions, themes, and activity ideas. Meanwhile, this page is active so you can order books; it just isn't quite as informative or graphically appealing as the new page will be. Thanks for understanding! :-)

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