The Review

As an avid reader who cherishes the power of storytelling, I have encountered few novels as profoundly moving and beautifully crafted as “Olga Dies Dreaming” by Xóchitl González. From the moment I delved into its pages, I was ensnared by a narrative that seamlessly weaves together themes of love, family, and the complexities of cultural identity, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and mind.

González’s prose is nothing short of poetic, transporting readers to the vibrant streets of Brooklyn and the lush landscapes of Puerto Rico with vivid detail and palpable emotion. Through the eyes of her protagonist, Olga, we are invited into a world where dreams collide with harsh realities, and the bonds of family are both a source of strength and a battleground for self-discovery.

At its core, “Olga Dies Dreaming” is a story about resilience in the face of adversity. Olga, a fierce and multifaceted heroine, grapples with the weight of her responsibilities as a daughter, sister, and lover, while navigating the complexities of gentrification and political upheaval in her community. As she confronts the ghosts of her past and the uncertain terrain of her future, Olga’s journey becomes a testament to the power of love and the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

But what truly sets this novel apart is its rich tapestry of characters, each rendered with depth and nuance that makes them feel like old friends. From the enigmatic Prieto siblings to the formidable matriarch, Blanca, González has crafted a cast of characters who leap off the page and into the reader’s imagination, leaving an indelible impression that lingers long after the final chapter has been read.

In “Olga Dies Dreaming,” Xóchitl González has masterfully captured the essence of the human experience, crafting a narrative that is at once universal and deeply personal. Through its poignant exploration of love, loss, and the search for belonging, this novel reminds us of the power of storytelling to illuminate the hidden corners of our hearts and minds. A triumph of literature that deserves to be savored and celebrated, “Olga Dies Dreaming” is a five-star masterpiece that will stay with me for years to come.

I’m thrilled to hear that Hulu is adapting this groundbreaking novel into a big-screen production because this story deserves to reach an even wider audience.

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Short Review (AKA TLDR)

“Olga Dies Dreaming” by Xóchitl González is a profoundly moving and beautifully crafted novel that seamlessly weaves together themes of love, family, cultural identity, and resilience. Set in Brooklyn and Puerto Rico, the story follows the bold protagonist Olga and her brother Prieto as they confront the complexities of identity, family, and activism. The novel fearlessly tackles themes of racism, white privilege, capitalism, elitism, and misogyny with unapologetic fervor, offering a reflection of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. González’s exquisite writing and rich tapestry of characters make this novel a five-star masterpiece that resonates deeply with readers.