45 pages • 1 hour read
America is in the Heart
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Book Brief
America is in the Heart
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1946327
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Philippines, USA • 1930s-1940s
1946
Adult
14-18 years
850L
Super Short Summary
America is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan is a semi-autobiographical novel about Allos, a Filipino immigrant who moves to America in search of a better life. The story, spanning decades, starts with his youth in the Philippines and transitions to his struggles and persistent efforts for education and equality in America. Allos faces racism, manual labor, and violence, yet he finds purpose in labor activism and writing, ultimately advocating for Filipino rights and American citizenship during World War II. The book contains occurrences of violence and discrimination.
Melancholic
Challenging
Emotional
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
3,964 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
America Is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan is celebrated for its poignant depiction of Filipino immigrant experiences in America. Praised for its lyrical prose and raw emotional impact, the autobiographical novel highlights themes of hardship and resilience. Critics note some dated depictions and narrative unevenness but largely commend its historical significance and heartfelt storytelling.
Who Should Read America is in the Heart ?
A reader captivated by America is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan typically enjoys deeply personal narratives of immigrant experiences and struggles for social justice. Fans of The Grapes of Wrath or The House on Mango Street will appreciate its poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the American dream.
3,964 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Father
Father
A hardworking and tragic figure burdened by his responsibilities, whose struggles have a profound impact on Allos.
Mother
Mother
A nurturing and lighthearted presence in Allos's life, representing resilience and acceptance in the face of hardship.
Amado
Amado
Allos’s older brother, whose journey in America leads him from a pursuit of pleasure to criminal activities before seeking redemption.
Macario
Macario
Initially the family's hope for financial stability as a student, he later reunites with Allos in America, where his interest in politics and literature influences their sibling bond.
Eileen Odell
Eileen Odell
Allos’s confidant and supporter, known for her non-racist attitude and encouragement of his intellectual pursuits.
327
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Philippines, USA • 1930s-1940s
1946
Adult
14-18 years
850L
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