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432
Book • Nonfiction
The Bronx, New York • 1980s-1990s
2003
Adult
18+ years
Random Family by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc, published in 2003, follows the lives of two Puerto Rican teenagers from the Bronx, Jessica Martinez and Coco Rodriguez, as they navigate hardships involving crime, poverty, motherhood, and addiction. The story delves into their personal struggles and relationships over many years, highlighting the impact of systemic neglect and personal choices on their lives. The book addresses sexual violence and abuse.
Gritty
Dark
Emotional
Challenging
Informative
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Adrian Nicole LeBlanc's Random Family paints a vivid, intricate portrait of life in the Bronx, with reviewers lauding its depth and empathetic storytelling. Praised for its thorough research, the book is sometimes critiqued for its density and emotional intensity, which some readers find overwhelming. Overall, it’s a compelling, immersive read that offers a stark look at poverty and resilience.
A reader who would enjoy Random Family by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc is likely drawn to detailed, real-life narratives exploring societal issues. Fans of The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore and There Are No Children Here by Alex Kotlowitz will appreciate LeBlanc's in-depth portrayal of family dynamics and urban poverty.
13,563 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Serena/Little Star
Jessica's emotionally significant daughter, who matures through many hardships and experiences formative care from other women in her community as she grows into an assertive young woman.
Cesar Santos
Lourdes's sensitive but troubled son, deeply affected by his environment, whose life is marked by early criminal involvement and eventual incarceration, during which he reflects on his past and circumstances.
Coco Rodriguez
Initially introduced as Cesar's romantic interest, she is a resilient woman whose ability to create a home and care for her children offers warmth and support within her challenging socio-economic situation.
Mercedes
Coco and Cesar's firstborn, characterized by a rebellious nature perceived as both spirited and problematic, shaped by her early experiences and the absence of her father.
Lourdes
A woman grappling with the challenges of motherhood and addiction, her life is defined by instability and complexity as she manages her family responsibilities amid personal struggles.
Boy George
A powerful drug kingpin whose influence profoundly impacts Jessica's life, known for his charisma, strategic acumen in the drug trade, and moments of unexpected tenderness.
432
Book • Nonfiction
The Bronx, New York • 1980s-1990s
2003
Adult
18+ years
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