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32 pages 1 hour read

The House of Broken Angels

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Luis Alberto Urrea

The House of Broken Angels

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Diego, California • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The House of Broken Angels takes place in San Diego over two days, spanning seven decades of memories, as the de la Cruz family, led by patriarch Big Angel, attend their mother's funeral and celebrate Big Angel's final birthday. The narrative captures their reflections on family history, personal struggles, and life philosophies amid complex family dynamics and poignant moments. Contains themes of terminal illness, gang violence, and bereavement.

Emotional

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.1

21,552 ratings

71%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Luis Alberto Urrea's The House of Broken Angels is widely praised for its vivid characters and emotional depth, capturing the complexities of a Mexican-American family. Critics commend Urrea’s lyrical prose and cultural authenticity. However, some find the plot occasionally meandering and dense. Overall, it's a powerful, heartfelt narrative rich in familial themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The House of Broken Angels?

Readers of The House of Broken Angels by Luis Alberto Urrea would appreciate family sagas rich in cultural heritage and emotional depth. Fans of Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits or Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude would find this novel’s exploration of Mexican-American identity compelling.

4.1

21,552 ratings

71%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Big Angel de la Cruz

The patriarch of his family, facing a terminal diagnosis, who reflects on his past and his identity during a family gathering. He grapples with his experiences as an immigrant and the nuances of family dynamics.

Big Angel's loving and supportive wife, devoted to her family and Big Angel despite his faults. She plays a critical role in the family's cohesion and navigation through difficult times.

Big Angel’s half-brother, a literature professor, who wrestles with his mixed heritage and familial relationships. His character development is marked by his journey toward acceptance of his identity.

Big Angel’s father, whose past actions and ghostly presence influence Big Angel’s understanding of fatherhood. His legacy impacts the familial relationships and serves as a reflection point for other fathers.

Big Angel’s daughter, who provides care for him while managing her own family. She is a strong presence in the family and stands as a symbol of the emerging matriarchal power.

Big Angel’s youngest son, a recovering military veteran, who struggles with his past gang affiliations and injury. His character highlights themes of redemption and familial preference.

Perla’s eldest son, who returns home after embracing his queerness and finding his place in a shifting family dynamic. His reconciliation with Big Angel forms a significant part of the family narrative.

Big Angel’s caring sister who lives alone and holds onto feelings for her ex-husband. She is supportive of family members despite their complex history.

Perla’s beautiful sister, whose vanity masks a deeper emotional complexity. She experiences character growth and ultimately finds love within the family.

Big Angel’s gentle younger brother known as Pato, who exemplifies a more loving and accepting model of fatherhood. His approach contrasts with the narrative of violence and abandonment.

The mentally disabled neighbor who forms a meaningful bond with Big Angel through a shared project. He represents Big Angel’s kindness and inclusivity.

César’s son, part of the next generation, and a member of a death metal band. His relationship with a blind woman showcases emerging familial stories.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Diego, California • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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