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Afro-Latino Authors to Read this Summer
As we embrace the warm and vibrant summer days, what better way to spend our leisure time than by delving into the enriching world of literature?
This season, we recommend three maravillosos books by Afro-Latino writers that promise to captivate your imagination, broaden your cultural horizons, and leave you inspired. From riveting fiction to delightful picture books and delectable recipes, these works celebrate the beauty of Afro-Latino heritage, traditions, and resilience.
Join us on a literary journey que celebra diversity, family, and love through these summer recommendations.
The Moonlit Vine” by Elizabeth Santiago
In her enthralling debut novel, “The Moonlit Vine,” author Elizabeth Santiago takes young adult readers on a powerful and poignant journey through the struggles, hopes, and liberation of Puerto Rican and Taíno people.
The book revolves around fourteen-year-old Taína Perez, whose life takes an extraordinary turn when her grandmother gifts her an ancient amulet linked to her Taíno ancestry. As Taína discovers her direct connection to Anacaona, a fierce Taíno warrior, she embraces her destiny and becomes a campiona for her family and community.
Santiago weaves interstitial historical chapters with a modern tale, redefining the narrative of Taíno culture and demonstrating its continued existence. Through its beautifully written prose and inspiring storyline, “The Moonlit Vine” is a captivating tale of self-discovery, cultural identity, and strength within one’s heritage.
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“Platanos Are Love” by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris
Celebrate the rich tapestry of Latinx culture, community, and family in “Platanos Are Love,” a delightful picture book by Afro-Latinx Dominican and Puerto Rican writer Alyssa Reynoso-Morris.
Through the eyes of a young girl in the kitchen with her abuela, readers embark on a heartwarming journey that highlights the significance of plantains in shaping Latinx traditions and bonding families together. This book not only introduces the joy of cooking but also emphasizes the deeper meaning behind plátanos: they are not just food, but an expression of love and a connection to one’s history and heritage.
Reynoso-Morris’ charming storytelling and the enchanting illustrations make “Platanos Are Love” a perfect read for children and adults alike, offering a delightful ode to the richness of Latinx culture and the bonds shared through food.
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“My Dominican Kitchen” by Vanessa Mota
If you’re a food enthusiast seeking to savor the flavors of traditional Dominican cuisine, “My Dominican Kitchen” by Vanessa Mota is an absolute must-have. This cookbook is a collection of over 80 authentic, mouthwatering recipes inspired by the author’s Dominican heritage.
Growing up in a matriarchal household surrounded by talented cooks, Mota’s passion for food was cultivated at an early age. Her recipes are crafted with easy-to-find ingredients and designed for modern families seeking to experience the soul-soothing flavors of traditional Dominican dishes.
From appetizers to desserts, each recipe in “My Dominican Kitchen” carries a piece of the author’s heritage and invites readers to partake in the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones.
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