Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing and a great way to celebrate this time of year is through the arts. Latinx authors have contributed so much to the literary world, like magical realism, rich history of poetry, and more. That’s why, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, here are nine Latinx authors’ books to read ASAP. From collections of poems to dystopian fiction, there is a book here for everyone.
Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Picture it — two girls on two different continents, but have the same dad. However, the two girls, Camiro and Yahaira Rios do not know that the other exists. Camiro lives in the Dominican Republic and Yahaira lives in New York. When their father dies in a horrific plane crash, his two secret lives collide, and the truth is exposed, finally bringing his two daughters together.
Inward by Yung Pueblo
Genre: Poetry
A collection of poetry that explores the evolution and transcendence of love throughout the human experience. These poems also remind us that it is never too late to forgive, grow, and love again.
Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica
Genre: Science Fiction
Due to a highly-infectious virus, people can no longer consume animal meat. Instead, it is now legal and socially acceptable to eat human meat. Marcos works in one of the human or “special meat” processing plants. He tries not to think too much about what he does for a living, which has worked pretty well so far. That is until he encounters and engages with a live specimen that forces him to confront his guilty conscience and reexamine his entire existence.
Read More: Latinx Nonprofits to Support in Northern New Jersey
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Genre: Gothic Thriller/Historical Fiction
Noemi is a young, beautiful socialite living in the lap of luxury when her beloved cousin sends a letter of despair from the distant Mexican countryside where she lives with her brand new husband. When Noemi’s father sends her to High Place to check on her cousin, she learns that something much more sinister is happening within those old, dark walls than just your average marital disputes.
The Fruit of the Drunken Tree by Ingrid Rojas Contreras
Genre: Coming of Age Fiction
Living in Colombia’s capital during the peak of Pablo Escobar’s power was not easy. Fortunately, seven-year-old Chula and her sister Cassandra are able to escape the constant danger and fear that many Colombians were currently facing. When her mother hires a new maid, Pretrona, Chula becomes quickly fascinated by her and her life. The two become fast friends and Chula begins to learn of the true dangers Escobar and his people pose, especially when she starts keeping some of Petrona’s secrets.
Furia by Yamile Saied Mendez
Genre: Contemporary Young Adult Fiction
On the outside, Camila Hassan is a normal Argentinian girl. At home, she strives to please her parents. But on the inside, she has dreams of becoming a soccer superstar. Her team qualifies to compete in a South American tournament and this is the chance she’s been waiting to be discovered. But there is one tiny problem… her parents would totally kill her if they ever found out she’s been playing soccer behind their backs this entire time. Camila must summon the courage to take control of her life, especially in a world when she is not allowed to pursue her dreams because of her gender.
100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
Genre: Magic Realism
A true classic that will transport you to another time and another place. Told through the experiences of the Buendia family, this novel will make you feel all the feels as you fall in love with all of the compelling characters and their stories.
See More: Latinx-Owned Businesses to Support in Hoboken + Jersey City
In the Country We Love by Diane Guerrero with Michelle Burford
Genre: Nonfiction
Can you imagine going to school as a normal 14-year-old girl and then coming home to find out your parents were deported? The daughter of two undocumented immigrants, Diane Guerrero tells a powerful story about her incredible resilience to make a name for herself in America despite the threat of adversity.
Eighteen Inches: The Distance between the Heart and Mind by Mirtha Michelle Castro Mármol
Genre: Poetry
A collection of poems about one woman’s journey to knowing herself. Through these poems, the author strives to connect her complicated feelings from her broken heart to the intricacies of her mind. These poems may inspire, sadden, or heal you, but Mármol is here to remind us beauty can be found in the broken.
