Super Short Summary

The Meaning of Consuelo by Judith Ortiz Cofer, set in 1950s Puerto Rico, follows adolescent Consuelo as she navigates her personal growth, her family’s fragmentation, and the conflict between tradition and modernity. Amid the challenges of caring for her sister Mili's mental health issues and grappling with gender roles and societal expectations, Consuelo strives to assert her independence. The novel addresses mental illness, sexism, familial dysfunction, and societal rejection of LGBTQ+ individuals and those who diverge from traditional norms.