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464
Novel • Fiction
Mexico And Chicago • 1950s
2002
Adult
18+ years
Caramelo by Sandra Cisneros follows three generations of the Reyes family as they navigate life in Chicago, Mexico City, and San Antonio, focusing on the coming-of-age stories of Soledad, her son Inocencio, and her granddaughter Lala. Through a unique bilingual narrative, the novel explores themes of memory, Mexican-American heritage, female strength, and the search for a home beyond national borders. The novel addresses mistreatment and prejudice based on heritage and skin color.
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Melancholic
13,317 ratings
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Readers who appreciate The House on Mango Street or Like Water for Chocolate will relish Caramelo by Sandra Cisneros. This novel, rich in cultural heritage, family histories, and the Mexican-American experience, captivates those who enjoy multi-generational stories infused with vibrant imagery and heartfelt, poignant narratives.
13,317 ratings
Loved it
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Inocencio Reyes
Lala’s father, a craftsman in the furniture business with a romantic streak, who often clashes with his brothers and struggles with family secrets.
Zoila Reyes
Lala’s practical and determined mother who contrasts with her romantic husband, Inocencio, and strives to keep her family together.
Soledad Reyes (The Awful Grandmother)
Lala’s grandmother, a strong-willed woman with a complex past, who greatly favors her son Inocencio and often conflicts with Zoila.
Narciso Reyes
Lala’s grandfather who enters into a difficult marriage with Soledad and plays a significant role in her early life experiences.
Rafa (Rafael), Ito (Refugio), Tikis (Gustavo), Toto (Alberto), Lolo (Lorenzo), and Memo (Guillermo)
Lala’s six older brothers, who embody traditional masculine archetypes and challenge her as the only girl in the family.
Uncle Fat-Face (Federico) and Uncle Baby (Armando)
Inocencio’s brothers and Lala's uncles, involved in the family upholstering business and journeying regularly to Mexico.
Aunty Light-Skin (Norma)
Inocencio’s sister, often overlooked like Lala, who has a complex relationship with her own mother due to past choices.
Eleuterio Reyes
Narciso's father from Spain, who leaves his previous family to start anew in Mexico and influences Soledad's early life.
Regina Reyes
Narciso’s mother and a resourceful family matriarch who supports her family through challenging times by clever trading.
Candelaria
A childhood playmate of Lala, known for her kind nature, who shares a mysterious connection to Lala's family.
Exaltacion Henestrosa
A captivating medicine woman entangled with Narciso, known for her fleeting romance and eventual departure.
Viviana “Viva” Ozuna
Lala’s spirited best friend from high school, whose vibrant personality offers strength and support through common hardships.
Ernie “Ernesto” Calderon
A devout Catholic boy, initially Lala’s romantic interest, whose strong ties to his faith influence his life decisions.
464
Novel • Fiction
Mexico And Chicago • 1950s
2002
Adult
18+ years
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