BOOK BRIEF

Ruins

Achy Obejas
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Ruins

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

Book Brief

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Achy Obejas

Ruins

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

205

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Latin American Literature
Setting

Havana, Cuba • 1990s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Ruins by Achy Obejas follows a Cuban individual named Usnavy who navigates life in Havana during the Special Period. As economic hardship and ideological shifts strain society, the protagonist confronts personal and familial challenges, exploring themes of hope and resilience amid ruin.

Melancholic

Mysterious

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Dark

Reviews & Readership

3.9

321 ratings

58%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Achy Obejas' Ruins captures post-revolutionary Cuba through the eyes of its protagonist, showing deep cultural and political insight. Critics praise its rich, evocative prose and compelling character development. However, some note its pacing issues and dense historical context as potential drawbacks. Overall, it offers a poignant reflection on identity and change.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ruins?

Readers who savor intricate narratives and cultural insights will relish Achy Obejas’s Ruins, which delves into Cuban life under Castro. Ideal for fans of Junot Díaz’s The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, it appeals to those who appreciate layered storytelling and historical context fused with personal struggle.

3.9

321 ratings

58%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

205

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Latin American Literature
Setting

Havana, Cuba • 1990s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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