107 pages • 3 hours read
Random Family
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Book Brief
432
Book • Nonfiction
The Bronx, New York • 1980s-1990s
2003
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
13,563 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Random Family?
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
432
Book • Nonfiction
The Bronx, New York • 1980s-1990s
2003
Adult
18+ years
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