Bodega Dreams : A Novel

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Summary: Trying to do the right thing is tough
Review: This novel is very good in that it captures a lot of the flavor of the hispanic community and its struggles to get a fair share of the action. Chino is always trying to figure out where he stands in relation to making things better for himself and his family. The struggle is whether to keep on the legal path or step beyond, where action speacks louder than words. Very good read, look forward to more from Quinonez.

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Summary: Brings Back Memories of Spanish Harlem
Review: Bodega Dreams brought back alot of memories of growing up in Spanish Harlem (Carver Projects) during the 70's and 80's. Each time I read something that would trigger a memory, I would read the section to my husband (a wonderful "redneck") and tell him that's how it was while I was growing up. The men playing dominoes outside, the congos being played on the streets, the pumps opened on a hot summer night, the salsa coming from the apartment windows...all of it brings back memories. I moved away in 1984 and moved around the country. I now call a small quiet town in Ohio home, but my family is still there. My mother still lives in the same apartment that I grew up in. I don't go back often but the memories in the book were sweet. Ernesto has captured the feel and emotions of the spanish people in harlem. For all you latinos out there, read this book...you won't be disappointed.

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Summary: I read 'The Great Gatsby' too.
Review: While Quinonez deserves props for articulating a vision of Spanish Harlem (and for selling a first novel about it!), he has simply taken every element of 'The Great Gatsby', from plot to use of narrator, to the ending. This, I'm sorry to say, is not original writing. I'm amazed it was published. For an authentic, original take on this subject, I recommend 'Always Running', about the LA barrio. But if you liked this book, perhaps you'll love Quinonez' next novel: it's a tale of a Puerto Rican prince who can't decide whether or not to kill his uncle, who murdered his father.

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Summary: BODEGA DREAMS
Review: A GREAT BOOK FOR ANY LATINS OUT THERE. YALL CAN ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING YOU WANT.. KEEP YOUR DREAMS ALIVE MY PEOPLE..PEACE JAVIER VILLEGAS

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Summary: The Rainbow People and Their Gem of a Writer
Review: A book everyone should read, Bodega Dreams transcends stereotypes and puts you as close to Spanish Harlem as you can get. It's a shame I'd never heard of Ernesto Quinones. He's a gifted writer and a role model to latinos everywhere. Read this and experience nuyorican soul no matter how lilly white or chocolate black you are. PALANTE PANA!

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Summary: Move over Junot!
Review: Here is the novel Junot Diaz would have loved to have written. But I don't think Quinonez should be compared to anyone. He is a very authentic voice. This is a beautiful and heartbreaking book. The language is so fast you'd think you're on a subway going uptown, and so humorous, you're entertained throughout the voyage. I highly recommend this novel! (And cheap paperback too--so give them to your friends!)

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Summary: A Worn-Out Joke
Review: I know people compare this book to the Great Gatsby and they might be right. It does have lots of similarities, but with its own twist. I really like the poetry in this book as well, I think it gave it a very nice touch. I happy to see all this Latino's writing such great stories, I have purchased Ernesto Quinonez latest book Chango's fire and I can't wait to read it.

I also purchased a couple of bodega dreams books a couple years ago as Christmas gift to friends of mine and they loved it. You don't have to be Latino to like these books. Anyone can enjoy them.

Rating:
Summary: Loved it
Review: I loved this book, loved the characters. The story contains plenty of suspense. With terrible outcomes expected and certain individuals suspected, I was constantly worried about these characters. Sapo is a scary guy, but absolutely hilarious. Neno was obviously a lot of fun for Quinonez to write and was a blast to read. I'm not going to give anything about my opinion of the story and the finale, because I'm afraid it would give too much away. Excellent debut!!

One problem with audio books is that I wonder if I would have gotten as much out of the story without the superb narration of Robert Ramirez. He is fantastic. He brings the characters to life and really makes you feel them. I'll be looking for every other book he has narrated. Great Job!!