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128
Biography • Nonfiction
Paterson, New Jersey • 1950s
1990
Adult
15+ years
Silent Dancing: A Partial Remembrance Of A Puerto Rican Childhood by Judith Ortiz Cofer interweaves essays and poems to depict Cofer's experiences growing up between Puerto Rico and Paterson, New Jersey, influenced by her grandmother's storytelling and navigating cultural identities, familial dynamics, gender expectations, and the contrast between Puerto Rican and American societies. The book addresses themes of sexual violence and gender discrimination.
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Melancholic
Bittersweet
526 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Judith Ortiz Cofer's Silent Dancing: A Partial Remembrance Of A Puerto Rican Childhood offers a poetic and poignant reflection on a bicultural upbringing. Reviewers praise its lyrical prose and vivid imagery, capturing cultural identity and nostalgia. Some note occasional uneven pacing, but overall, it is a compelling exploration of heritage and memory.
Readers who appreciate reflective memoirs about cultural identity, family dynamics, and childhood memories will enjoy Silent Dancing: A Partial Remembrance Of A Puerto Rican Childhood by Judith Ortiz Cofer. It's ideal for fans of Sandra Cisneros's The House on Mango Street or Esmeralda Santiago's When I Was Puerto Rican.
526 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mamá
Judith's grandmother and a strong matriarchal figure in her life, residing in Puerto Rico. Known for her powerful storytelling and living by her own rules, Mamá imparts wisdom through traditional cuentos that significantly influence Judith's understanding of stories.
Papá
Mamá's husband and Judith's grandfather, described as a gentle man who writes poetry and engages in spiritism. He quietly supports others, offering healing and comfort as a community spiritist.
Mother
Judith's mother, who maintains strong ties to Puerto Rico and struggles with assimilation into US culture. Her resistance to cultural change and her efforts to recreate a Puerto Rican environment in Paterson deeply affect Judith's experience of cultural duality.
Father
Judith's father, who serves in the US military and is seldom present in her life. His desire to leave Puerto Rico behind and fully embrace US culture contrasts with her mother's attitudes, contributing to Judith's complex sense of cultural identity.
128
Biography • Nonfiction
Paterson, New Jersey • 1950s
1990
Adult
15+ years
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