I’m Booked: “The House on Mango Street”
Written by Ally Abruscato. Graphic by Ally Abruscato.
If you haven’t noticed already, I’m often drawn to slow and depressing books that leave me feeling like I should lie on the floor for a while. During my most recent trip to Starland E. Shaver, I was determined to find a book that kept me from quitting reading altogether. That’s when I came across “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros.
In the act of transparency, I’ll admit that this book isn’t the happiest thing I’ve ever read. However, it is short and sweet and made my heart full. It is organized into short stories from the point of view of a young girl, Esperanza, in Chicago. These sometimes page-long stories read almost like poetry in their intimacy and heart. Although it differs from a traditional narrative, I nonetheless felt attached to the neighborhood.
I loved “The House on Mango Street” for its nostalgia and truth. While it covers some heartbreaking stories, it remains youthful and entertaining. Esperanza discussed what it is like to grow up as a Latina girl in America, unsatisfied with the world around her. She spent her childhood ashamed of the house on Mango Street. In a way, the book feels like an autobiography, considering Cisneros’ intimate introduction that echoes the same themes.
The poetic feel of this book is charming. I was constantly in awe of the stories told in only a few short sentences. One example is from a chapter titled “Beautiful and Cruel,” which says, “I have begun my own quiet war. Simple. Sure. I am one who leaves the table like a man, without putting back the chair or picking up the plate.”
Ultimately, I highly recommend reading “The House on Mango Street.” It is a quick read that can be read in one sitting or in short segments over a long period of time. Either way, make sure to enjoy every last drop. I’ll be back soon with another book review, but until then, I’m Booked.
As Editor-in-Chief, Ally Abruscato leads and supports a talented group of staff and contributors in pursuing their creative endeavors. At SCAD, Ally majors in Photography and minors in Advertising & Branding. She regularly offers pop culture insights through movie reviews, articles and her weekly column, “I’m Booked.” When she’s not writing or taking photos, Ally’s probably outside, reading or running.
